Former Barcelona sporting director Ramon Planes believes Hansi Flick’s team are currently the side to beat in Spanish football. However, he has warned the Catalan club not to underestimate Real Betis ahead of their upcoming clash.
Planes has strong connections with both clubs. He previously worked at Barcelona before joining Betis, where he played a role in bringing Ez Abde to the Andalusian side.
Real Betis have enjoyed an impressive run under Manuel Pellegrini. Their recent performances have helped them establish themselves as a competitive force in Spanish football. Planes believes they have enough quality to challenge Barcelona and make the contest exciting.
“They are two clubs that I really have a lot of esteem for. My time at Barça is something I’m proud of.
“Today Betis is at its best, one of the best in its history and I think it comes from the idea of Angel Haro and Jose Miguel Lopez Catalan, at the time, to build a modern Betis,” said Planes.
Planes Praises Deco’s Work at Barcelona
Planes believes Betis can trouble Barcelona because of their strong squad and confidence. He also highlighted their performances against top teams last season.
“If anyone can give them a run for their money, it’s the current Betis side; they’re in excellent form and brimming with confidence.
“They’re consistently putting in top-class performances; they proved that last season against the big teams.
“They’ve got a ‘star-studded’ squad, full of top-quality players, and I think it’s going to be a cracking match because both teams pack a real punch.”
The former Barcelona official also praised sporting director Deco for strengthening the squad. He pointed to Barcelona’s comeback against Galatasaray in Istanbul as an example of their confidence under pressure.
“I think Barça’s transfer business has been very good and Deco is doing a fantastic job. He’s injected a lot of dynamism into the team and strengthened the squad.
“That makes them the team to beat right now,” added Planes.
Barcelona currently lead the league standings, five points ahead of Betis and six clear of Real Madrid. With El Clasico approaching, Planes warned that Madrid should not be overlooked.
“We mustn’t underestimate Real Madrid, because they have a fierce competitive spirit, but this match is one to sit back and enjoy.
“Anyone going to the stadium is lucky – it’s like seeing Shakira live – it’ll be a spectacle; I’ll be watching it from my sofa at home,” he concluded.
