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Defender Hector Bellerin’s desire to leave Arsenal for Real Betis this summer may have suffered a blow following the latest update from Spain.
THE LOWDOWN: PLEASANT TIME AT BETIS
Bellerin’s life back in Spain began after he fell out of favour with Arteta in the 2020/21 season – he made just three appearances in the final 13 games of their Premier League campaign. He was loaned out to Spanish La Liga side Real Betis for the whole of the 2021/22 campaign.
The defender had a successful time with Betis as he made 32 appearances and contributed five assists in all competitions and Manuel Pellegrini’s side won the Copa Del Rey. All summer, he has been contemplating a return back to Betis but a way out could not be reached.
In fact, Arsenal were keen to sanction his exit but Betis failed on their part to meet the club’s valuation of the player. Spanish news outlet ABC de Sevilla reported that Bellerin’s representatives began talks with the Gunners to terminate his contract, but nothing has been made public to date.
THE LATEST: BAD NEWS
Although the summer transfer window won’t close until September 1, Real Betis manager Manuel Pellegrini doesn’t expect any more signings between now and then and has categorically ruled out a potential transfer for Bellerin.
“There is no expectation of further reinforcements. We would have liked to analyze it from a different point of view, but there is an economic situation that means we cannot do so,” he said, as per Mundo Deportivo.
“The objective is to keep the squad as strong as possible following the exits of Joel, [Cristian] Tello and now [Marc] Bartra. It allows us to replace them just like last year. The sporting criteria, the work of Antonio [Cordon, Sporting Director] and the arrival of important players for free has allowed us to maintain our footballing strength.”
THE VERDICT: COMPLICATED SITUATION
Now, Betis’ position does not look good for Arsenal and Bellerin. Initially, Arteta said his fellow countryman still has a future at the club, but Bellerin has made up his mind to only return to the Villamarin.
Now that this has come up, if no other offers come in, the Spaniard might be forced to spend the rest of the season with the Gunners. For obvious reasons due to the personnel available, the 27-year-old can’t get playing time at the Emirates this season, so Arsenal must find an alternative solution before the end of the window.
