Béticos Veteranos honour Pellegrini and Cousillas

Béticos Veteranos honoured Pellegrini and Cousillas, also recognising the special relationship they have established with Betis supporters. At 73, Pellegrini is the oldest coach in Europe’s five major leagues. He said he was moved to share the occasion with people who have followed the club for decades.

“It is very moving to be with people who have supported Betis for so many years, with the same passion, joy and sadness felt in every match,” he said. The coach also spoke about the closeness with supporters over the seven years they have shared: “In these seven years we have felt them with us on the pitch and everywhere we go to play.”

Rubén Cousillas, the former Argentine goalkeeper who has worked alongside Pellegrini for 25 years, also expressed his attachment to the club, formed during his time in Seville. “I arrived here as a professional, and the day I leave, I will leave as one more Bético,” he said.

The tribute underscored their sporting impact. With Pellegrini and Cousillas, Real Betis qualified for European competition for six consecutive seasons. The club won the Cup in 2022 and returned to the Champions League this campaign, 21 years after its previous appearance. The club’s oldest supporters had never seen Betis so consistent.