Ezzalzouli out vs Real Madrid: Pellegrini loses left-flank drill, Riquelme gets golden chance

The name Abdessamad Ezzalzouli is absent from Real Betis's squad list for this weekend's match against Real Madrid. Coach Manuel Pellegrini confirmed that the Moroccan forward has a viral infection, which caused him to miss Thursday's training session and he will not recover in time. The news, initially leaked from Sport newspaper, was confirmed by the Chilean strategist ahead of the press conference. For a team like Betis, losing their most creative player before facing a top opponent is a significant blow — but the real story lies in how Pellegrini adapts and whether Riquelme can adequately step in. Match context: Real Madrid have started the season well and this is considered their first major away test. Betis, with ambitions to compete for a European spot, view this match as a test of squad depth. Ezzalzouli, who caused Real's defense numerous problems in last season's meeting, was the hosts' most important attacking weapon. However, his absence is not entirely bad news: Rodrigo Riquelme, a former Atletico Madrid player, has started impressively with 2 goals in 3 rounds. Pellegrini gave Riquelme a starting spot from the beginning of the season, and now he has the chance to prove his worth against one of the toughest opponents. Tactical analysis: Ezzalzouli is not just a simple winger. He is the 'drill' that specializes in creating breakthroughs in 1v1 situations. His dribbling ability and ability to stretch the opponent's defense were Betis's most potent weapon. His absence forces Pellegrini to change the entire attacking structure. Riquelme, despite good form, is a different profile: more about movement and finishing than dribbling past players. This means Betis will lose the ability to 'pin' Real Madrid's right-back in direct confrontations. Instead, they will have to rely on quick ball circulation and Riquelme's ability to seize chances. This change could make Betis more unpredictable, but it also reduces their ability to control the game. Contrarian view: Many will rush to conclude that Ezzalzouli's absence is bad news for Betis. But looking closer, this could be an opportunity for Pellegrini to build a style of play less dependent on individual inspiration. Riquelme is in high form, and his start against Real Madrid will help Betis test whether they can operate well without their 'star'. If Riquelme shines, Pellegrini will have two different attacking options for big matches. Conversely, if Betis fail, the 'too dependent on Ezzalzouli' narrative will resurface. Interestingly, this very absence could help Betis discover a more flexible version of themselves. Conclusion: This match is not just a clash between two teams, but a test of Pellegrini's adaptability. Can Riquelme replace Ezzalzouli seamlessly? Can Betis maintain pressure without their left-flank drill? The answer will come after 90 minutes on the pitch. But regardless of the result, one thing is certain: Betis must learn to live without Ezzalzouli, because with his fragile fitness, such situations will recur. And that is the real problem Pellegrini needs to solve, not only in this match but for the entire long season ahead.