Manuel Pellegrini could not stop smirking as he looked ahead to Real Betis’ clash with Manchester United on Sunday. The Chilean manager, who has been in charge of the Spanish side since 2017, was in a buoyant mood as he addressed the media ahead of the game.
The match will be the first time the two sides have met in a competitive fixture since the Champions League semi-final in 2008, when United won 4-3 on aggregate. Pellegrini was in charge of the Red Devils at the time, and his memories of the occasion were clearly still fresh in his mind.
“It’s a special game for me,” he said. “I have a lot of memories of the Champions League semi-final against United. It was a great game and I’m sure this one will be too.”
Pellegrini was also keen to point out that his side have been in good form of late, having won their last three matches in La Liga. He believes that his team are capable of causing an upset against the Premier League giants.
“We’re in good form and we’re confident that we can get a result against United,” he said. “We know it won’t be easy, but we’re ready for the challenge.”
The former Manchester City boss also had some kind words for his opposite number, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer. He praised the Norwegian for the job he has done since taking charge of United in December 2018.
“Ole has done a great job since he took over,” he said. “He’s a very good manager and I’m sure he’ll do well at United.”
Pellegrini’s enthusiasm for the game was clear to see, and his smile only grew wider as he discussed the prospect of facing United. He believes that the match will be a great spectacle for the fans, and he is looking forward to the challenge.
“It’s a great game for the fans,” he said. “It’s a chance for us to show what we can do against one of the best teams in Europe. We’re looking forward to it.”
Pellegrini’s enthusiasm was infectious, and it was clear that he was relishing the prospect of taking on United. He believes that his side have what it takes to cause an upset, and he is confident that they can get a result.
“We’re ready for the challenge,” he said. “We know it won’t be easy, but we’re confident that we can get a result.”
It is clear that Pellegrini is looking forward to the game, and his enthusiasm was evident as he addressed the media. He believes that his side have what it takes to cause an upset, and he is confident that they can get a result. The Chilean manager could not stop smirking as he looked ahead to the game, and it is clear that he is relishing the prospect of taking on United.