Ez Abde returns to the Real Betis squad for the La Liga match against Levante this Saturday. The Moroccan winger, who missed the World Cup with a knee injury, completed a full week of training and was confirmed by his manager, as reported by ABC Deportes.
The match comes at a tough time for Levante, who sit 17th in the table with just one point from two games. The Granotes have yet to score this season and have conceded three goals, leaving them five points behind leaders Barcelona. Their next home challenge, against a Betis side in fourth place, is a chance to react.
How is Abde shaping up for his return?
Ez Abde returns after a long spell on the sidelines. The knee injury kept him out for months, even costing him a World Cup appearance. This week, however, he was seen smiling in Betis training, working with a protective knee brace. Chilean manager Manuel Pellegrini was clear about his status: "Va a estar en la lista" (He will be in the list).
The Betis coach, however, urged caution with the Moroccan and another player in recovery, Álvaro Fidalgo. The latter also had knee issues and was not at 100%. Pellegrini hopes to give him some minutes but stated they will handle him carefully.
What other absences affect Betis?
The positive news on Abde is tempered by the confirmed absence of Giovani Lo Celso. The Argentine is not in the squad for the trip to Valencia due to muscular discomfort. Lo Celso partially rejoined group training on Friday, but Pellegrini was realistic about his timeline. "No está citado y la próxima semana se integrará plenamente al grupo. Antes de 15 días es difícil que pueda estar" (He is not called up and next week he will fully integrate with the group. It's difficult for him to be ready in less than 15 days), the manager declared.
This situation leaves Betis with limited options in midfield for a key match. Fans can check the full status of the squad on our dedicated page.
What is the context of this match for Levante?
For Levante, the clash against Betis represents the third matchday of La Liga and an opportunity to secure their first win. The team plays at home, at the Ciudad de Valencia stadium, a venue that last season also saw Abde's season debut, when he was dealing with ankle problems.
The need for points is urgent. With a record of zero wins, one draw, and one loss, and a -3 goal difference, Levante must tighten their defence and find a cutting edge. The standings table reflects the pressure on the team in these early stages of the campaign.
What is expected from the match in Valencia?
The return of Ez Abde adds an unexpected offensive factor for the visiting Betis. His ability to unbalance play on the wing could be decisive against a home defence that has shown vulnerabilities. For their part, Levante must capitalise on home advantage and the possible lack of match sharpness of some recently recovered opposition players.
Saturday's match is, therefore, a clash of needs. Betis, in fourth, want to consolidate their position at the top, while Levante, in seventeenth, seek to get going. The match development and tactical decisions can be followed through our live stats. The outcome will set the initial course for both teams this season.
