Pellegrini's Decision on Zalzouli at Betis
Manuel Pellegrini, coach of Real Betis, opted not to start Moroccan international Abdel-Samad Zalzouli in the recent match against Osasuna, which ended in a 2-1 victory for Betis. Pellegrini decided to keep Zalzouli on the bench, where he played only a few minutes in the second half to avoid any potential injuries, given the significant playing time he has had at the start of the season and his recent participation with the Moroccan national team.
Pellegrini expressed his hope to avoid overworking Zalzouli, citing the similar situation with Lo Celso, who suffered an injury while with his national team. He noted that both players had minimal pre-season matches, wishing for Zalzouli to remain healthy.
Media reports suggest that Zalzouli is sought after by a La Liga club for a loan during the upcoming winter transfer window, but Pellegrini refuses to allow his departure, considering him a key player with improving form this season.
This season, Zalzouli has played in 13 matches for Betis across all competitions, scoring 3 goals and providing an assist while posing a consistent threat to opposing defenses and contributing to several match victories.
It is important to note that Zalzouli is contracted with Real Betis until the summer of 2028, making the Andalusian club his third in La Liga after Barcelona and Osasuna. Additionally, he has played 19 matches for the Moroccan national team, scoring 2 goals, and 7 matches with the Olympic team, winning the Africa U-23 Cup of Nations and securing a bronze at the Paris 2024 Olympics.
