Forced Change in Real Betis Lineup Ahead of Villarreal Clash

17 January 2026at11:20

Real Betis faces unexpected changes to their squad ahead of their anticipated match tonight against Villarreal in La Liga, which will take place at the Estadio La Cartuja.

Midfielder Nélson Deossa was excluded from the squad list on Saturday, just hours before kickoff, due to what the club described as "a feverish state due to tonsillitis."

Young player Dani Pérez will replace Deossa in the squad. This exclusion is a significant blow to Betis' midfield, forcing coach Manuel Pellegrini to adjust his initial plans for this crucial match in the battle for European qualification.

Potential midfield combinations include Marc Roca and Altimira playing alongside Fornals, or Fornals and Roca partnering in midfield with Lo Celso moving into a more advanced attacking role.

Q&A

Why is Nélson Deossa not playing for Real Betis against Villarreal?

Nélson Deossa was excluded from the Real Betis squad just hours before kickoff due to a 'feverish state due to tonsillitis,' forcing coach Manuel Pellegrini to make last-minute midfield adjustments.

How does Nélson Deossa's absence impact Real Betis' midfield strategy against Villarreal?

Deossa's exclusion is a significant blow to Betis' midfield, compelling coach Pellegrini to revise his initial plans for this crucial La Liga match in the battle for European qualification.