Pellegrini's Los Verdiblancos surge after Parrott's Champions League winner

Troy Parrott's late strike secured Real Betis a 1‑0 win over Lille in their first Champions League match in more than two decades, sparking a jubilant scene at the Benito Villamarín. The victory lifts the Los Verdiblancos to third place as the international break approaches, underscoring a strong start to the season.

Summer signings boost attacking depth

The €16m acquisition of the Irish striker has already yielded winning goals against Real Madrid and Lille, instantly endearing him to the passionate fanbase. Parrott now offers genuine competition for Cucho Hernández, who has been the regular forward since the previous 18 months.

Midfield reinforced by Ceballos return

Dani Ceballos, now 30, returns after a nine‑year spell at Real Madrid, re‑joining a midfield already packed with Pablo Fornals, Isco and Giovani Lo Celso. Alongside Marc Roca, Facundo Bernal, Alvaro Fidalgo and Nelson Deossa, the squad may have an excess of creative midfielders.

Wider options and emerging talent

Rodrigo Riquelme has already netted twice in La Liga this season, while Ez Abde has recently returned to fitness. Antony, however, has yet to record a goal or assist, suggesting further contributions from the flanks are forthcoming.

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Defensive record and lingering concerns

After seven league games, Betis have recorded four 1‑0 victories and have conceded only seven goals, five of which came in their sole defeat to Levante. They have allowed 13.0 expected goals, a figure surpassed only by Racing Santander and Elche, and rode luck to a 1‑0 win over Real Madrid in early September.

Transfer policy has seen young talents such as Jesús Rodríguez and Assane Diao move to Como in 2025, while 20‑year‑old prospect Pablo García departed for Racing Santander on deadline day. The club’s strategy of selling emerging players to fund experienced signings appears to be paying off on the pitch.

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At 73, Manuel Pellegrini has long favoured technical players in central areas, and he believes this is the strongest squad of his six‑year tenure. He may line up with both Ceballos and Isco in midfield, deploying Fornals wider, as the team prepares for the added demands of Champions League competition.