Sofyan Amrabat’s time at Betis may not be over yet. With the transfer window entering its final days, Manuel Pellegrini continues to push for a new midfielder, with the Moroccan international remaining the coach’s preferred option.
According to Spanish daily AS, signing a defensive midfielder is Betis’ top priority as the transfer window concludes. If Pellegrini had the choice, he would bring back Amrabat, who spent last season on loan at the Andalusian club and is a player he already knows.
From the coach’s perspective, the situation is straightforward. Betis have lost Sergi Altimira and Amrabat from their midfield, while Facundo Bernal has joined the squad. The Uruguayan can play a defensive role but is viewed more as Altimira’s replacement. Pellegrini therefore believes he still needs a genuine defensive midfielder who can add physical presence, experience, and balance in front of the defense.
The situation is complicated by other deals Betis are pursuing. The Seville club is also working on the return of Dani Ceballos and needs to make room in an already crowded midfield that includes Marc Roca, Bernal, Fornals, Isco, Lo Celso, Fidalgo, and Deossa. Some departures could therefore be necessary to bring in both a defensive midfielder and Ceballos.
For Pellegrini, however, the priority is clear. The Chilean coach has publicly stressed the need to sign a defensive-minded player, prioritizing this need over other potential deals. Asked about Amrabat, he also highlighted the advantage of signing a player who already knows his team and methods.
The Moroccan’s profile remains particularly appealing to his former coach. Despite physical problems that disrupted part of his time in Seville, his experience, aggression in challenges, and ability to maintain the team’s balance left a strong enough impression for Pellegrini to want him back.
There is, however, a major obstacle. AS reports that Amrabat is currently training separately from the Fenerbahçe squad and is seeking a solution to his contract with the Turkish club to become available. Even in that scenario, his high salary would be a significant burden for Betis’ finances.
The Seville club is therefore exploring other options, including Genoa’s Danish midfielder Morten Frendrup. But with the transfer window closing soon, Pellegrini’s message is clear: Betis needs a defensive midfielder, and ideally, he wants that player to be Sofyan Amrabat.
Manuel Pellegrini and Sofyan Amrabat. DR
