Real Betis Balompié has solidified its status as a key springboard for national teams, with the latest example being defender Valentín Gómez's first senior call-up for Argentina. The left-footed centre-back, who has played four official matches this season in La Liga and the Champions League, sees his rapid adaptation rewarded with a leap to the Albiceleste. His performance has been notable, with an average of 85 minutes per goal conceded, standing out in a defence that has shown excellent recent form.

The Verdiblanco club, sitting third in La Liga with 16 points from seven games, has been a visible platform in Europe for years. Its regular participation in continental competitions attracts top-level footballers who find the Benito Villamarín the perfect stage to relaunch or begin their international careers.

The list is extensive and spans different generations. Pau López received his first call-up from Luis Enrique for the Spanish national team shortly after joining Betis, having previously only featured for the youth sides. Sergio Canales also made his Spain debut in March 2019, later becoming key in winning the 2022-23 Nations League.

In the case of Borja Iglesias, the striker earned his first Spain call-up at age 29 after a spectacular start to the 2022-23 season, and he debuted while still a Betis player. Ayoze Pérez, after years in England without a call-up, convinced Luis de la Fuente with his 2023-24 campaign at Betis, debuted with a goal against Andorra, and was crowned a Euro 2024 champion.

Some players have used the club to return to their national selectors' plans after long absences. Isco Alarcón, who joined Betis in the summer of 2023 without a club, was recalled by Luis de la Fuente after nearly six years without playing for Spain. The manager explained he "included him again in a call-up in May 2025 for the Nations League Final Four," though a fibula injury later ruled him out of the Euro 2024 that Spain won.

Pablo Fornals signed for Betis in February 2024 and, after over four years without a call-up, Luis de la Fuente gave him a new chance, though he ultimately missed the preliminary squad for the 2026 World Cup. Midfielder Paul Akouokou also grew under Manuel Pellegrini and earned his first call-up with Ivory Coast in 2022.

The phenomenon transcends borders. Emerson Royal was first called up by Brazil while at Betis in 2019. Álvaro Fidalgo, after meeting residency requirements, played in the 2026 World Cup for Mexico. Borja Iglesias himself, then at Celta, was a world champion that same year.

This international recognition comes at a strong sporting moment for the team. Following the 1-1 draw away to Deportivo La Coruna last weekend, Betis is on a five-match unbeaten run, with four wins and a draw. The next fixture is against Osasuna at the Villamarín on October 11th, an opponent currently in 13th place. Fans can check the full schedule and squad evolution on our fixtures and squad pages. With 9 goals scored and 7 conceded, Manuel Pellegrini's side looks solid and attractive, a combination that continues to open national team doors for its players.

Read the full report at Marca - Primera