The Spanish newspaper AS reported that Real Betis is facing a complex situation as the Moroccan international Abdel Samad Zalzouli is about to join his national team in preparation for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, amid ongoing negotiations with the Royal Moroccan Football Federation to try to keep the player for as long as possible before he joins the training camp.

According to the newspaper, Betis has become heavily reliant on Zalzouli, who has become the most influential element in the attacking line in recent weeks, increasing coach Manuel Pellegrini's concerns ahead of the player's anticipated absence.

AS praised Zalzouli's remarkable performance against Barcelona, describing him as the best player in the match without competition, as he was directly involved in all of his team's goals thanks to his high speed, dribbling ability, and chance creation.

The report also highlighted his season statistics, including scoring 3 goals and providing 4 assists, in addition to his standout performance in the Europa League.

The report explained that FIFA regulations require Zalzouli and his teammate Amrabat to join the Moroccan national team camp before December 15, which means they will miss the match against Rayo Vallecano. Therefore, the club is trying to convince the federation to postpone their travel by just one day to benefit from their presence in that important match.

The newspaper added that if Morocco advances to the later stages of the tournament, Betis will lose Zalzouli's services in crucial matches against Getafe, Real Madrid, Oviedo, and Villarreal, and possibly also in the Round of 16 of the Copa del Rey.

AS concluded that Zalzouli's temporary departure represents a significant blow to Betis at a sensitive stage of the season, especially after he became one of the team's key pillars and a central attacking card in Pellegrini's project, placing the club in an “awkward position” as it tries to delay his departure even by just one day.