There could not be much more difference in the mood around Real Betis when compared to Tottenham Hotspur in recent weeks.
Betis is surrounded optimism, with multiple players shining more than they have previously, and a big feeling of potential achievements between now and the end of the season.
They’re sixth in La Liga, with Manuel Pellegrini having them way ahead of local rivals Sevilla, a club they recently beat, in 12th. Betis have growing confidence about the possibility of winning the UEFA Conference League, and it’s not felt unrealistic they could qualify for the Champions League via the league.
Meanwhile, Tottenham are 14th in the Premier League and doubt is growing around Ange Postecoglou. They have a chance to win the Europa League and qualify for the Champions League that way, and yet pessimism is the story of the day.
One of the players impressing recently for Real Betis has been Johnny Cardoso. Tottenham have a €25m option to sign him come the summer, as part of the deal they agreed to send Giovani Lo Celso back to Betis.
La Colina de Nervion, local to Betis, report the move to Spurs is far from a forgone conclusion. It’s stated ‘everything has changed’ in recent weeks and Cordoso is tempted to stay at Betis.
Indeed, he’s made that clear himself in interviews recently.
Tottenham can’t force him to move and will rely on his agreement.
