Pellegrini Ahead of PAOK Thessaloniki Match: Ez Abde Requested to Join Squad, Diaz Going Through Difficult Period But Will Recover

21 January 2026at21:26

Real Betis coach Manuel Pellegrini spoke about the psychological state of his Moroccan player Abde Ezzalzouli, following the loss of the Africa Cup of Nations title against Senegal, also noting that Brahim Diaz is going through a difficult period.

Regarding Ezzalzouli's situation, Pellegrini stated in the pre-match press conference ahead of the PAOK Thessaloniki clash: "It's not the best way to come back after a loss, but we have a limited number of players."

He added: "If he (Ezzalzouli) is on the squad list, it means he is ready to play, and he himself wanted to be with us."

Regarding Diaz's situation after missing a penalty in the 95th minute, Pellegrini commented: "Brahim is going through a difficult period because of that, but he will undoubtedly recover quickly."

Q&A

Why did Ez Abde return to the Real Betis squad for the PAOK match so soon after AFCON?

Ez Abde himself requested to join the Real Betis squad for the PAOK match, despite the recent AFCON loss, as coach Pellegrini noted the team has a limited number of available players.

What is Brahim Diaz's current psychological state according to Real Betis coach Pellegrini?

Real Betis coach Manuel Pellegrini confirmed that Brahim Diaz is experiencing a difficult period after missing a 95th-minute penalty, though he expects the player to recover quickly.

Morocco

CAF Africa Cup of Nations

Senegal

Spanish La Liga

Brahim Díaz