Abde Ezzalzouli's return to competitive action will require a little more patience.
Real Betis head coach Manuel Pellegrini has confirmed that the Moroccan winger will miss the upcoming meeting with Real Sociedad, with the club unwilling to rush him back before he reaches full physical readiness.
Pellegrini Chooses Patience
Speaking ahead of the match, Pellegrini explained that Ezzalzouli still needs additional time to rebuild his fitness following his lengthy spell on the sidelines.
The Chilean coach stressed that the priority is ensuring the Moroccan returns at the right moment rather than taking unnecessary risks that could lead to another setback.
"He has to continue recovering calmly after his knee injury and will play when he is fully ready."
A Gradual Return
Ezzalzouli has already resumed training with Betis, gradually increasing his workload as he works his way back toward full fitness.
After such a prolonged absence, however, the coaching staff is taking a measured approach to his comeback, allowing him to rebuild both his physical condition and match sharpness step by step.
The goal is clear: a complete and sustainable return to competition.
Betis Keeping the Bigger Picture in Mind
For Betis, Ezzalzouli remains an important attacking option, making his return something the club wants to manage carefully.
Rather than accelerating the process, the coaching staff is determined to give him the necessary time before granting him the green light for regular competitive football.
That patience could prove crucial as the Moroccan prepares to rediscover his rhythm and confidence on the pitch.
The Road Back Continues
The Moroccan international's absence from the Real Sociedad fixture is therefore another stage in his recovery rather than a setback in itself.
With his training programme progressing and Betis continuing to monitor his condition closely, Ezzalzouli's return is gradually getting closer.
The Atlas Lion is back on the training ground, the road to competition has begun, and when the moment is right, Abde will be ready to shine again.