Severe Injury Crisis Hits Real Betis Ahead of Alaves Clash

23 January 2026at11:20

Real Betis' injury crisis has deepened following their two-nil defeat to PAOK Thessaloniki in the Europa League. This loss makes their upcoming match on Thursday against Feyenoord crucial for securing a spot in the top eight and avoiding a playoff.

The defeat has exacerbated the team's injury woes ahead of their anticipated visit to Alaves on Sunday at Mendizorroza Stadium. In addition to previous injuries to Bellerín, Junior Firpo, Amrabat, Isco, Riquelme, and Cucho Hernández, the PAOK match saw Giovani Lo Celso substituted due to injury.

Furthermore, player Ruibal requested to be substituted due to discomfort, and coach Pellegrini has confirmed his absence from Sunday's match. Ricardo Rodríguez also sustained a minor injury, and Antony is experiencing groin discomfort. Should Antony not recover, Real Betis could potentially face Alaves with ten injured players.

On a more positive note, Bakambu will return to the squad after serving his suspension, which may offer some much-needed options for the coach amidst these challenging circumstances.

Q&A

What happened to Giovani Lo Celso during the PAOK match?

Giovani Lo Celso was substituted due to injury during the PAOK match, adding to Real Betis' growing list of sidelined players. Further details on his recovery and impact on the squad are available in the full article.

How does Real Betis' defeat to PAOK impact their European campaign?

The two-nil defeat to PAOK Thessaloniki makes Real Betis' upcoming match against Feyenoord crucial for securing a spot in the top eight of the Europa League and avoiding a playoff.

Real Betis

Deportivo Alavés

PAOK Thessaloniki U17

Feyenoord

UEFA Champions League