It’s been a busy day for Real Betis, who’ve completed two deals: one in, one out. The signing is one that has been anticipated for the last few days: Ricardo Rodriguez.
Towards the end of last week, Rodriguez – who had been a free agent after leaving Torino – agreed terms with Betis. He’s now completed medical tests, and the club has confirmed that he has penned a two-year contract.
📣 OFICIAL | Ricardo Rodríguez nuevo refuerzo del #RealBetis 🆕💚
¡Bienvenido a Heliópolis! 👋😃
➡️ https://t.co/3AEGsilkba pic.twitter.com/fVhUAuFeJz
— Real Betis Balompié 🌴💚 (@RealBetis) August 5, 2024
Rodriguez’s versatility will be valued by Manuel Pellegrini. He’s predominantly a left-back, although he has play in central defence if required – and this will be needed for the time being, as Betis have lost German Pezzella against their will.
The centre-back has joined River Plate, who activated the €4.5m release clause that was in his Betis contract.
📣 OFICIAL | Germán Pezzella se marcha a @RiverPlate 📄🖊
¡Gracias por tanto y mucha suerte en el futuro, @Gpezze! 🧉💪
— Real Betis Balompié 🌴💚 (@RealBetis) August 5, 2024
Pezzella’s departure is a big blow for Betis, as he was expected to be a regular starter during the 2024-25 season. Their search for a replacement will be well underway, and the hope is that it won’t take too long.