Abde Ezzalzouli will not feature for Real Betis against Real Madrid. The Moroccan forward has once again missed training due to a viral infection and is consequently left out of the squad for the upcoming fixture.
Ezzalzouli Absent Against Real Madrid
Ezzalzouli was once again forced to sit out Real Betis' final training session. According to Spanish reports, the 24-year-old Moroccan international is battling a viral infection.
Due to his absence, manager Manuel Pellegrini will be unable to call upon him for the encounter with Real Madrid, scheduled for Friday in the fourth matchday of La Liga.
The exact nature of the infection has not been officially disclosed, and there is currently no clarity on when Ezzalzouli will be able to make his return.
Betis Loses Option on the Left Flank
His absence is a setback for Pellegrini, who values Ezzalzouli as an important attacking option on the left wing.
The Moroccan was just beginning to build up match fitness. Last week, he made his first appearance of the new La Liga season, coming on for about fifteen minutes during Betis' fixture.
With his pace and direct style of play, Ezzalzouli provides an extra attacking threat from the flanks. Against Real Madrid, however, Pellegrini will have to make do without that weapon.
Recovery Takes Priority
For now, the primary focus for Ezzalzouli is a full recovery. A return only makes sense once the forward is fit enough to train and play matches without any issues.
Meanwhile, a tough test awaits Real Betis. Real Madrid remain one of the toughest opponents in the league, leaving Pellegrini with a tactical puzzle to solve regarding his available attackers.
Ezzalzouli will have to watch the match from the sidelines. The Moroccan international is now fully focused on his recovery and returning to action for Real Betis as soon as possible.