Chasing Dreams: Giovani Lo Celso’s Perspective on Real Betis’s Historic Moment

Giovani Lo Celso expresses the significance of moments like these, which imbue all experiences with meaning. At Real Betis’s Luis del Sol training facility in the fragrant city, swallows dart under a clear sky, and rainbows shimmer in the sprinkler mist on the training pitch. The team is preparing for the Conference League final against Chelsea. They proudly uphold their motto: Viva el Betis, manque pierda, which translates to “Long live Betis, even if they lose.” A victory could mark the most significant achievement in the club’s history.

Lo Celso has a football tattoo on his right calf, characterized by its retro, cartoonish style representing his debut date with Rosario Central in 2015. On his left leg, he sports the Copa América trophy wrapped in an Argentine flag, a title he has won twice (2021 and 2024) along with a treble in France. He also played in a League Cup final with Tottenham, yet emphasizes the importance of this upcoming final: “I rank it right up there with those finals,” he notes, relaxing in the shade.

“Every player dreams of participating in matches like this, especially for a passionate club like Betis,” Lo Celso reflects. He acknowledges that the club has waited a long time for an opportunity like this. Betis’s history includes a solitary league title won in 1935, falling to the third division during the 50s, and three cups secured in 1997, 2005, and 2022. Never before have they reached a European final, making this occasion monumental, particularly for a club that was in the second division only a decade ago and has now consistently qualified for Europe over the past five seasons.

Manuel Pellegrini, the coach responsible for this transformation, recalls how even suggesting such success years ago would have seemed ludicrous. He helped instill a sense of ambition and mentality within the team. Lo Celso praises Pellegrini’s authority and leadership, noting how he provides players with the freedom and structure necessary to excel. The environment Pellegrini has created at Betis is one of rejuvenation, allowing players like Isco and Antony to rediscover their talents.

The unique, vibrant culture of Betis is also a significant draw. “It’s the people here,” Lo Celso describes, highlighting their warmth and loyalty. The club boasts a robust membership and passionate support, most notably seen when 30,500 fans attended a training session just before a derby. Lo Celso appreciates the city’s football culture, recognizing the responsibility players feel in giving back to their devoted supporters.

Having previously played for Betis, Lo Celso found his way back, feeling an instant connection once more. He had recently assisted his team in the Copa América final, and despite past injuries and challenges at Spurs, he has found a flourishing home at Betis with an impressive scoring record since his return. His results, paired with the emergence of Isco, have become an interesting dynamic as the team prepares for the final.

As they get ready to face Chelsea, Lo Celso remains focused on the match, acknowledging the uniqueness of their opportunity. “We know this final means a lot, but we’re simply focusing on the game itself. We want to enjoy it and strive to make many people happy,” he concludes, embodying the excitement and weight of this historic moment.