Betis boss reveals: «Lo Celso will be at the World Cup with Argentina» | OneFootball

On the eve of the 2026 World Cup, expectations remain high over which Argentinians will make up the final squad of 26. Manuel Pellegrini, the coach of Giovani Lo Celso—who has just returned from injury—at Betis, has “no doubt” that he will be among those called up. “He will be at the World Cup,” he confirmed.

Before the match against Elche, the Chilean coach was asked about the progress of the former Rosario Central player, who has recovered from a rectus femoris injury in his right leg suffered in the Europa League match against PAOK, and replied that he considers him a certainty for the final list. The Rosario-born midfielder is already part of Argentina’s 55-man preliminary squad.

Pellegrini revealed that Lo Celso “is not ready to play the full ninety minutes” in Tuesday’s match against Elche or in the following game against Barcelona, two key matches to secure qualification for the Champions League. Betis are in fifth place—the last qualifying spot—with 54 points, four ahead of Celta.

The coach also highlighted about his player: “He is a difference-maker, but there are many aspects to consider when putting together a starting eleven. There were a number of players one booking away from suspension—including the Argentine—and that was also important.”

On Tuesday, the verdiblancos will face Elche starting at 3 p.m. on Matchday 36 of La Liga, which already has Barça as champion after beating Real Madrid 2-0 at Camp Nou.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇪🇸 here.