💚 Nabil Fekir, the face of Betis ahead of the Lyon clash | OneFootball

The pre-match image posted by Real Betis ahead of the clash against Olympique Lyonnais has sparked both nostalgia and excitement among the fans. Seeing Nabil Fekir wearing the green-and-white kit, even if only in a promotional context, serves as a reminder of his legacy. The World Cup champion, signed in 2019 from Lyon itself, quickly proved that his arrival was a statement of intent for Betis’ ambitions, becoming the face of a project that aspired to look towards Europe on a regular basis.

From his very first matches, the French-Algerian displayed football of exquisite quality, capable of tipping games with an unexpected dribble or a powerful shot. His magical left foot became the team’s main attacking weapon. Over his five seasons, Fekir played 165 matches and scored 29 goals, leaving behind a collection of unforgettable moments. Beyond the numbers, his commitment on the pitch and his personality earned him the immediate respect of both the dressing room and the fans.

The pinnacle of his career at the Benito Villamarín came with the conquest of the Copa del Rey in 2022. Fekir was a key piece in that team managed by Manuel Pellegrini, which brought a trophy back to the club’s cabinet after 17 years. This success sealed his status as an idol. The bond between the player and the stands was absolute, adopting him as a world-class ‘crack’ who chose to wear the thirteen stripes over offers from more powerful clubs.

The Betis fans, known for their passion, found in Fekir a different kind of player, a maestro who enjoyed wearing the shirt. Every technical detail, every free-kick goal, or every incisive pass was celebrated with special devotion. Although his time ended in 2024 with his transfer to Al-Jazira, the affection for him remains intact. He is remembered as a silent leader, a footballer of his era who embodied the quality and artistry so highly valued by Betis supporters.

That his image graces the poster for the match against his former team, Olympique Lyonnais, is no coincidence. It represents the emotional bridge between two important clubs in his career. For the fans, it is a reminder of the glorious years experienced with him. His figure transcends mere sport, becoming a true emblem of Real Betis in the past decade. His legacy will endure in the green-and-white memory as that of the genius who made a city dream.

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

📸 CRISTINA QUICLER - AFP or licensors