Bellerín revels in Dublín triumph over former club Arsenal

Real Betis captain Héctor Bellerín said, “Estoy grateful for the chance to enjoy the match,” after his side beat former club Arsenal 1‑3 in Dublín, a game that saw the Spanish full‑back lead the verdiblancos against the current Premier League champions and Champions League runners‑up.

Bellerín wore the captain’s armband for Real Betis on the night in Dublín. His leadership was highlighted as the Spanish side secured a convincing win.

Before joining Betis, Bellerín captained Arsenal, the club that entered the game as the reigning Premier League champions. Arsenal also held the position of Champions League runners‑up.

The fixture was staged in Dublín, where the verdiblancos triumphed 1‑3 over the Gunners. The result marked a rare defeat for the English side on foreign soil.

Bellerín revealed he had spoken with Marc during the week and asked him to let him have the responsibility, describing Marc as a great teammate. He said the conversation helped him embrace the role.

He added that he was eager to take on such a beautiful responsibility and to give his best in a match of this magnitude. Seeing many teammates and Mikel Arteta on the pitch added to the significance for him.

Concluding his remarks, Bellerín called the experience a joy and expressed gratitude for the chance life gave him to enjoy the game. His comments underscored the personal meaning of facing his former club.