I was very inexperienced in both football and life, he tells FourFourTwo when quizzed about his arrival in north London. I feel that the UK made me an adult and a professional, experienced player. Most of my growth happened in London. I was really lucky that the years I spent there, I had great team-mates and coaches, and opportunities to play top-level football. That was probably the most important part of my development as a person and as a player.
Real Betis are a very ambitious club with a strong following who have played in major European competitions, such as the UEFA Champions League, and reached the final of the Conference League last season, which they lost to Chelsea. Los Verdiblancos ended up as high as seventh in the La Liga table in the 2023-24 season and did better last season.
But when I spoke to Bayern, I told them that the deal with Betis was 95% complete, and that I would honour my word. I would do so out of respect and love and because I know that I am very happy here. I don't know if they were offering me €7 million ($8.15m) [in wages]. With all respect I have for Bayern, which is a world-class club, I am at ease with the decision I've taken. I don't know what will happen in the future but I feel very calm about the decision I've taken.
Real Betis midfielder Sergi Altimira admitted that things that shouldn't happen occurred in the friendly against Como. The incident was sparked by heavy challenges on midfielders Giovani Lo Celso and Isco, leading to punches being traded between Pablo Fornals and Como's Maxi Perrone.
Real Betis is positioning itself as a contender for Bryan Zaragoza amidst stalled negotiations between Bayern Munich and Celta Vigo, creating a potential opportunity for the Spanish club.
Mateo Joseph has been linked with a move from Leeds United as he seeks regular opportunities after struggling for game time. His performances for the U21 Spanish team have drawn interest from Real Betis. Negotiations between the clubs have stalled due to a lack of agreement on a transfer fee, creating a standoff. If he stays at Leeds, he could become an important player with the right guidance. The chance to play in Spain with Real Betis remains appealing for him.