Real Betis boss Pepe Mel has put the onus on his players to show what they are made of in Sunday’s derby with Sevilla.
Los Rojiblancos’ goalkeeper Andres Palop declared this week that Betis are favourites going into the game because of their League position, and Mel has challenged his team to respond to the pressure they will face.
“For me this week takes precedence for Pepe Mel the fan over Pepe Mel the professional. My players already know what I’m asking for and what it now needs is something to spice things up,” he told the club’s official website.
“We also know what the fans want from the team when they go out at the Sanchez Pizjuan.
“This will be the best week for the players to go for a walk in the city and feel what the people are talking about, both Beticos and Sevillistas.
“What would not be good is if they went through this week without living and enjoying the atmosphere of a derby.”
To make his players even more aware of the importance of the game to the supporters, Mel has even chosen to hold open training sessions before they make the short trip to face their cross-city rivals.
“I’ve left the psychological aspect until the day of the game. I’ll leave it to the fans who come to see us to tell the players what it means to visit their neighbour’s home.”
