Abde Ezzalzouli impresses Hansi Flick ahead of Real Betis clash with Barcelona

Barcelona manager Hansi Flick has praised Morocco international Abde Ezzalzouli ahead of Saturday’s La Liga encounter with Real Betis, highlighting the winger’s confidence, dribbling ability and threat in the final third.

Flick spoke highly of the former Barcelona player during his pre-match press conference as his side prepared for a difficult trip to Andalusia.

According to Spanish newspaper Sport, the German coach has been impressed by Ezzalzouli’s performances and the qualities he brings to the Betis attack.

“What I see from him impresses me. He’s a great player, I like the way he plays football, his confidence when he takes on his opponents one-on-one in the final third of the pitch, and he’s also able to score, which is impressive,” he said.

The Barcelona manager’s comments underline the threat Ezzalzouli could pose to his former club when the two sides meet in the league.

The Moroccan winger has enjoyed an encouraging start to the 2026-27 campaign, scoring three goals in six appearances for Real Betis. His attacking qualities have made him an important player for the Andalusian side as they seek to maintain their strong form in the Spanish top flight.

Ezzalzouli previously played for Barcelona before moving on in his career. His familiarity with the Catalan club adds another dimension to Saturday’s meeting, with the winger set to face a side he once represented.

Real Betis target Barcelona’s unbeaten record

Real Betis enter the fixture in third place in La Liga with 19 points from eight matches. Their record of six wins, one draw and one defeat has put them among the leading teams in the division.

The club will now aim to secure another important result against Barcelona and bring the visitors’ impressive winning run to an end.

Barcelona, meanwhile, are seeking to maintain their momentum after recording 10 consecutive victories. Flick’s side will be determined to extend that run, although their trip to Andalusia presents an opportunity for Betis to test their credentials against one of the league’s leading teams.

Ezzalzouli’s ability to beat defenders in one-on-one situations could be particularly important for the home side as they look to trouble Barcelona’s defence. His recent goalscoring form also gives Betis an additional attacking option heading into the contest.

The match is scheduled for Saturday, 17 October 2026, with kick-off at 16:30 GMT at the Benito Villamarín stadium. The encounter forms part of the ninth round of the La Liga season.

With Barcelona looking to preserve their winning streak and Real Betis hoping to claim a statement victory, Flick’s praise of Ezzalzouli adds further interest to a fixture that could have an impact on the early league standings.