Pellegrini: "We must start the Cup on the right foot"

Pellegrini wants Betis to start the Copa del Rey with a win at lower-division Navalcarnero, viewing the tournament as a six-game path to a European place.

Manuel Pellegrini has warned Betis not to underestimate their Copa del Rey opener against Navalcarnero on Wednesday at Santo Domingo, despite the category difference. The manager sees the cup as a potential shortcut to European qualification, describing it as "a six-game route to play a final and qualify."

Pellegrini confirmed the squad arrives in good condition with most players available. Cucho remains injured and Facundo is suspended, while Junior Firpo will not be included despite returning to training; youth left-back Ian Forns has been called up instead. The manager left open the choice of goalkeeper, saying "we'll see which one starts tomorrow." He also indicated the cup could provide minutes for fringe players like Iker Losada, who faces competition from Isco, Lo Celso, Fornals and Fidalgo in his position.

Pellegrini stressed the importance of a strong performance and individual evaluation, not just victory. He warned against complacency given the frequency of cup upsets and demanded respect for the opponent. The visit comes 17 years after Alcorcón's famous 4-0 defeat of Real Madrid under Pellegrini, which he dismissed as one of 1,600 matches he has managed.