Pellegrini wants a pivot, and Ceballos is not the full solution | OneFootball

Manuel Pellegrini has prioritised a defensive midfielder before the window closes, with Real Betis short in that role after losing Sergi Altimira and Sofyan Amrabat. Facundo Bernal has arrived, but further cover is required and Dani Ceballos would not address the entire need.

According to La Colina De Nervion, Pellegrini noted before the Real Sociedad opener that two midfielders had departed and only one had come in, stressing the importance of finding the right profile.

Bernal joined from Fluminense on a contract to 2031 and plays naturally as a pivot. In pre-season he was asked to win the ball and keep it simple. The issue is depth in a position thinned by departures.

Ceballos has been a free agent since 26 June after 215 games and 16 trophies with Real Madrid. Betis have explored his return, yet he is more a build-up midfielder than a pure defensive screen.

Asked about a comeback for the Utrerano, Pellegrini declined to link him to the vacancy, calling the talk speculative. The club have also pursued a separate pivot profile while handling Ceballos as a distinct avenue.

Altimira joined Sporting CP for €18.25m plus up to a further two million euros after 40 appearances and two goals in 2025/26. Amrabat has also gone, and while Bernal covers part of that role, the numbers remain light.

With Champions League football back after 21 years, Betis need depth to rotate every three or four days. Pellegrini says the squad resembles last season and results will judge it. Salary-margin room is required for additions, with a pivot the priority.

Source: La Colina De Nervion

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