Striker-needy Premier League clubs missed a trick when it comes to “big player” Troy Parrott, former Republic of Ireland international Clinton Morrison has told GOAL. The Tottenham academy graduate spread his wings in 2024 when heading to the Netherlands and now finds himself in Spain - and the Champions League - with La Liga outfit Real Betis.
Troy Parrott’s meteoric rise since leaving North London reached a new peak on Tuesday night as the Republic of Ireland international marked his Champions League debut with a sensational winning goal. The forward inspired Real Betis to a 3-2 victory over Lille, further cementing his status as one of Europe’s most clinical emerging talents.
Troy Parrott continued his sensational start to life at Real Betis by firing the winning goal in a thrilling Champions League comeback victory over Lille. The Spanish side battled back twice from a goal down before Ethan Mbappe's straight red card ended any hopes of a late French fightback.
Lille head coach Davide Ancelotti has lavished praise on Real Betis counterpart Manuel Pellegrini ahead of their Champions League league phase opener on Tuesday. The Italian tactician highlighted the Chilean's exceptional longevity and achievements while insisting the La Liga outfit remain formidable opposition despite a 21-year absence from Europe.
The road to Madrid begins this week as the league phase gets under way - but which teams are currently looking in the best shape to go on and lift the European Cup?
Former Barcelona winger Cristian Tello has officially announced his retirement from professional football at the age of 35 following a career spanning 512 matches across six countries. The La Masia graduate, who enjoyed notable spells with Real Betis and Porto, called time on his playing days after a brief stint with UAE third-tier side Palm City FC.
Real Madrid suffered a frustrating 1-0 defeat to Real Betis after Kylian Mbappe missed a crucial penalty. Betis defender Marc Bartra has since revealed the clever tactical secret behind his decisive clearance following the save, admitting he consulted a former referee to exploit the encroachment rules.
Manuel Pellegrini has hit back at Jose Mourinho’s assessment of Real Betis’ dramatic victory over Real Madrid, dismissing claims that his side merely rode their luck to secure the three points. The Chilean tactician watched his side bounce back from a disappointing defeat to Levante by defeating the Spanish giants at La Cartuja.
Real Madrid suffered a frustrating 1-0 defeat to Real Betis after Kylian Mbappe missed a stoppage-time penalty to rescue a point. Troy Parrott scored a late winner for the hosts on an evening that saw Jose Mourinho heavily question the officiating.
Real Madrid suffered their first defeat of the season in a dramatic clash against Real Betis at La Cartuja, but the post-match talk has been dominated by a single moment of officiating controversy. Despite claims that Marc Bartra encroached on Kylian Mbappe's late penalty, the officials correctly stood by their decision not to order a retake.
Arsenal narrowly missed out on signing Real Betis prospect Pablo Garcia after Racing Santander swooped in with a £4.3 million deal on deadline day. The 20-year-old attacker was reportedly on the verge of joining the Gunners before opting for a permanent move to remain in Spain.
Real Betis academy product Pablo Garcia has completed a €5 million transfer to Racing Santander on deadline day. The emotional 20-year-old was visibly moved as his departure helps clear funds for Dani Ceballos' return.
Besiktas are reportedly targeting former Manchester United winger Antony after missing out on the signing of Mohamed Salah. According to Turkish reports, the Brazilian forward could make another high-profile transfer this summer following an impressive campaign with Real Betis.
Napoli have stepped up their pursuit of Dani Ceballos by submitting a formal offer to the former Real Madrid midfielder following his departure from the Spanish capital. The 30-year-old free agent is also attracting interest from Juventus and boyhood club Real Betis, but Massimiliano Allegri's side are now pushing hard to conclude a swift transfer.
Arsenal prospect Louie Copley has confirmed he suffered a torn anterior cruciate ligament during the Gunners' pre-season friendly against Real Betis. The 19-year-old midfielder was forced off just minutes after coming on as a substitute at right-back, delivering a cruel setback to his hopes of breaking into Mikel Arteta's senior setup.
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has revealed his players were left "fuming" following a 3-1 pre-season defeat against Real Betis in Dublin. The Gunners were heavily punished for a series of defensive errors as they suffered a disappointing loss in their summer schedule.
Hector Bellerin has expressed his immense pride after captaining Real Betis to a 3-1 pre-season victory over his former club Arsenal in Dublin. The Spanish full-back requested the armband specially for the occasion as he enjoyed an emotional reunion with Mikel Arteta and several former team-mates.