Easy for Barcelona? Betis have decided to roll over for the Catalans
It looks like Real Betis could make Barcelona's task considerably easier with a surprising selection decision.
Details: According to Spanish journalist Pepe Elías, Real Betis are preparing major changes to their starting XI for the La Liga meeting with Barcelona. The Andalusian side could rotate as many as half of the players who would normally start. Spanish outlet Mundo Betis has separately reported that Manuel Pellegrini is expected to change around half of his team for the Barça clash.
The decision comes during an extremely busy stretch for Pellegrini's team. Betis faced Porto in the Champions League on October 14 and secured a 3-2 victory, leaving the Andalusians with only a short turnaround before another demanding fixture.
Barcelona will visit Betis at Estadio La Cartuja on Saturday, October 17, with kick-off scheduled for 18:30 CEST. Hansi Flick's side arrive in Seville as La Liga leaders and with a perfect record of eight victories from their opening eight league matches.
It is worth noting that Betis have also enjoyed an excellent start to the season. Pellegrini's side sit third in La Liga with 19 points after eight matches, recording six wins, one draw and one defeat while scoring 14 goals. Barcelona lead the table with 24 points and an impressive goal difference of 34-7.
Reminder: Long-awaited boost ahead of the trip to Seville: Barcelona’s key players return to action
Steven Perez
Dailysports's expert
