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.
Ludogorets Razgrad U19
