Betis President: "I Respect All Countries, But My Country Is Betis" – World Cup Celebration Leads to Bakambu Sanction
Real Betis has announced its intention to apply internal disciplinary regulations to its Congolese player, Cédric Bakambu, following his four-day delay in returning to Seville past the scheduled date. The Spanish club is also considering legal action to claim compensation for damages resulting from the player's late return. Bakambu's delay occurred after he participated with his national team in the World Cup qualifiers, where DR Congo secured a historic qualification for the finals next summer – an achievement not seen in 52 years – after defeating Jamaica 1-0.
Not only did the player return late, but he also traveled with his international teammates to his home country to celebrate this achievement. This prompted other Spanish clubs, such as Espanyol and Elche, which also have Congolese international players, to join Betis in filing a complaint with La Liga.
Club president Ángel Haro expressed his strong dissatisfaction with the situation, stating: "I haven't been able to speak with him. I know there have been some communications via WhatsApp, but I absolutely do not like this situation, neither from the Congolese Federation nor from the player."
Haro added: "Clubs cooperate with federations, and it's important to represent your country, but there needs to be more seriousness. The Congolese Federation sent us an email telling us to keep the player from April 3 to 5. We said we disagreed, and now our legal departments will review the claims we can make."
He further stated: "Regarding the player, we have disciplinary regulations that players sign, and these must also be applied."
When asked about the repercussions of this disciplinary action on the player, Haro clarified: "But there is a signed disciplinary regulation; just as there are rights, there are duties. I respect all countries, but for me, my country is Betis, and I must represent it. Exceeding the date specified by FIFA is something I do not like at all."
It is worth noting that Bakambu is in his final months as a Betis player, with his contract expiring on June 30 and not set to be renewed. This incident could potentially affect his participation with the team in the remaining La Liga and Europa League matches.
