Pelligrini’s squad could see a fresh option emerge as Panda’s absence creates a path for Pellegrini to lean on the Canary striker who only joined the ranks a short time ago. The injury news reshapes Real Betis’ plans and adds a new dimension to the manager’s selection dilemma.
The setback for Borja Iglesias, who recently underwent surgery to repair a torn collateral ligament in the finger of his right hand following a clash with Almería, represents a notable obstacle for Betis. The operation and the subsequent layoff complicate the team’s attacking options and force a rethink of the frontline strategy.
Yet adversity often opens doors. The current situation raises the possibility that Ayoze could seize the moment and claim his first title with the Verdiblanco jersey. The Tenerife-born forward arrived at Heliópolis after receiving a direct invitation from Manuel Pellegrini, who personally urged the move to strengthen the squad’s firepower. If he is given a consistent run, Ayoze could prove to be the breakthrough figure Betis needs in a pivotal stretch of the campaign.
To date, Ayoze has featured in only two matches, logging a total of 39 minutes — 17 in the defeat to Celta and 22 in the recent victory against Almería. Interestingly, the dynamics of those games echoed a familiar pattern: Betis carried the same heavy blows that triggered the signing, suggesting a role for the Canary in a more central attacking berth as the team navigates its goal-scoring challenges. Pellegrini is weighing whether Ayoze can be trusted to be the man to unlock defenses and provide a reliable source of goals as the season intensifies.
Beyond the loan option with Leicester, Pellegrini has other possibilities on the table. Willian José was expected to be the principal route for the coach, but the Brazilian forward has not been in peak form lately, and his playing time has dipped in recent outings. In the last two matches, the substitute role has increasingly fallen to Betis’ new striker, underscoring the manager’s willingness to test alternatives and adjust the attack with fresh legs.
Willian José has seen limited minutes across the last four fixtures. He appeared for 13 minutes against Barcelona, just three minutes in the Getafe clash, ten minutes in the Espanyol defeat, and 22 minutes in the Vallecas win. The latest interval since November 10 against Valencia marks a long gap without significant involvement, a sign that Pellegrini is actively exploring how best to deploy the Brazilian forward within the system and balance the frontline options.
All these data points feed into the strategic calculation ahead of next Saturday’s trip to Real Valladolid. The coach could also consider shifting Juanmi to a more advanced role, which would free up other positions and alter the forward dynamics. Yet Pellegrini is not one to improvise without a clear, natural alternative in front of him, especially when the squad’s chemistry and the need for a reliable goal threat are at stake.