Joel, from questioned to savior in the Pellegrini project

Joel Robles broke in with his best version when Betis needed him most. The goalkeeper went through a period of irregularity from last season to Ecuador of the present before earning more than the right to be a starter in Manuel Pellegrini's scheme. It was not easy for him: last summer Claudio Bravo arrived and took center stage almost immediately until injuries diminished his chances. Joel took advantage of it, who is now living his best moment in Heliópolis by winning the particular battle against Bravo and being chosen by the Chilean coach for several days despite the availability of his competitor. His stops in Cádiz kept his team alive in another performance of merit that confirms his good feelings in recent weeks.

“He has the same leadership without playing, he will,” said Pellegrini when asked a few days ago about the figure of Claudio Bravo and his unexpected replacement. For now, Joel's response on the pitch is so resounding that there are no options for the Chilean to return to the scene as a starter. The Madrilenian has already signed six games with a clean sheet this season and his numbers give him the leading role in the first team after having lost it at various times during the course. It was not an easy start to the campaign for him, since Bravo arrived with stripes and a possible goodbye was even considered. In addition, Betis has tied the signing of Rui Silva for the next campaign and this invites a revolution next summer in the Verdiblanca goal.

Joel just looks at the present knowing that ups and downs are always present in goal. The challenge of obtaining a European ticket is on the table and he will address his future when he finishes a course that is leading him to the remarkable performance that he reflected during his first year with Betis under Quique Setién. “He is the best positional partner I have had in my entire career,” Pau López said about him two years ago, before leaving for Roma in Serie A. There are many unknowns on the table for the future of the Betic goal, But Joel has no doubts that he will fight to be an important asset in the days remaining to the end of the season.