Pellegrini forced to call up youngster Marina as Chimy Ávila joins Betis injury list
Real Betis face an uphill battle at the Metropolitano with Chimy Ávila joining their lengthy injury list, prompting a call-up for youth prospect Rodrigo Marina.
Manuel Pellegrini’s injury headaches continue as Betis prepare for a tough away day at the Metropolitano without several key players.
Injury Crisis Deepens
The Chilean gaffer has been dealt another blow with Chimy Ávila ruled out for Sunday’s clash against Atlético Madrid. The Argentine forward picked up a knock during Thursday’s Copa del Rey fixture and hasn’t recovered in time to make the squad.
He joins a growing list of absentees that’s becoming longer than my local’s beer menu:
- Cucho Hernández (who was hoping to return for Thursday’s cup tie)
- Bellerín (still working through his recovery)
- Amrabat, Isco and Lo Celso (all still some way from returning)
Lo Celso appears to be the most serious case, with reports suggesting he’s about two months away from action - explaining why he lost his European squad place to Fidalgo.
Youth Gets Its Chance
With options limited, Pellegrini has turned to the academy, calling up promising youngster Rodrigo Marina. The lad’s been in blinding form for the youth sides, recently bagging a hat-trick against Tottenham in the Youth League. Talk about perfect timing!
Fidalgo, who made his debut on Thursday playing the second half in the Copa, receives his first La Liga call-up as Pellegrini scrambles to assemble a competitive squad.
Top Four Push Continues
Despite their injury woes, Betis remain focused on maintaining their fifth-place position in the table. With Celta Vigo (currently seventh) losing to Osasuna yesterday, the Verdiblancos have an opportunity to extend their advantage in the European places.
The 22-man squad will fly to Madrid this evening, hoping to pull off a result that would be as welcome as a pint on a Sunday afternoon.
Full Squad
Goalkeepers: Valles, Adrián, Pau López
Defenders: Ortiz, Ruibal, Bartra, Diego Llorente, Natan, Valentín Gómez, Ricardo Rodríguez, Junior
Midfielders: Altimira, Marc Roca, Deossa, Fornals, Fidalgo, Antony, Abde, Riquelme
Forwards: Pablo García, Rodrigo Marina, Bakambu