Pellegrini urges Betis to 'look forward' after Copa humiliation
The Engineer calls for self-criticism following Betis' 5-0 thrashing by Atlético Madrid, as his squad prepares for immediate rematch at the Metropolitano.
Manuel Pellegrini isn’t one to bottle his emotions after Betis suffered a proper hammering in the Copa del Rey at the hands of Atlético Madrid.
The Chilean gaffer faced the music at Luis del Sol training ground ahead of tomorrow’s league rematch with Atleti, just days after the Verdiblancos were on the receiving end of a five-goal drubbing that knocked them out of the cup competition.
Moving past the humiliation
Pellegrini acknowledged the painful defeat, describing it as “very ugly and painful” that caught the team by surprise. Despite the setback, his focus remains on recovery and improvement:
“The team tries to recover as quickly as possible, both physically and mentally. We must continue preparing to keep fighting on the other two fronts,” he explained, referring to La Liga and Europa League campaigns still within reach.
Injury concerns mounting
Betis’ squad depth faces challenges with several key players sidelined:
- Cucho Hernández continues partial training but remains unavailable
- Chimy Ávila is out with discomfort
- Héctor Bellerín expected back in training within 2-3 weeks
- Difficult Europa League squad decision leaving Lo Celso out for Fidalgo
Self-criticism the way forward
When asked about the team’s approach following the thrashing, Pellegrini emphasized the importance of honest assessment without throwing in the towel:
“The way forward is self-criticism and finding the best path to continue for the next match,” he stated, acknowledging the pain felt by everyone at conceding five goals in front of their own supporters.
The Engineer bristled slightly when questioned about potential tactical changes, drawing a distinction between the manager’s role and that of journalists. “When you’re a manager it’s different from being a journalist,” he pointed out, defending his selection process while accepting responsibility for the result.
Betis will be desperate to avoid back-to-back defeats against Simeone’s men when they visit the Metropolitano – a stadium where they’ve historically struggled to secure victories.