Youssouf Sabaly nears Real Betis return following prolonged recovery period

Real Betis is anticipating the imminent return of Senegalese international right-back Youssouf Sabaly to collective training after an extended absence due to injury. The veteran defender, who has been sidelined since a friendly match against Algeria on September 12, 2023, due to an adductor injury and later a relapse involving a grade 2 sprain of the internal lateral ligament of the right knee, is on the verge of rejoining the squad.

Real Betis coach Manuel Pellegrini expressed optimism during a pre-match press conference on Thursday, ahead of the clash against Cádiz on Friday.

Pellegrini stated, “He is in the home stretch of his recovery. He should definitely resume collective training next week,” providing a glimmer of hope to fans eagerly awaiting Sabaly’s return.

The 30-year-old right-back’s last appearance on the field was in the aforementioned friendly against Algeria. Since then, he has faced a series of setbacks, with injuries threatening to keep him away from competitive action.

Despite suffering a relapse in early November, Sabaly made the cut for the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) with the Senegal National Team.

However, his inclusion in the national squad raised eyebrows at Real Betis, considering his ongoing recovery process. The decision to summon Sabaly to the AFCON, coupled with his absence from the Europa League and Europa Conference League, led to questions about his fitness to endure the demands of back-to-back matches.

With Sabaly inching closer to a return, speculation arises about his potential comeback against Alavés on Sunday, February 18. Manuel Pellegrini, aware of Sabaly’s injury history, is expected to manage his playing time strategically to optimize the right-back’s contributions without compromising his physical well-being.

As Real Betis enthusiasts eagerly anticipate Sabaly’s return, the looming prospect of his reintegration into the squad adds a positive dimension to the team’s dynamics.