Real Betis President Miguel Guillen has reflected on 2012, calling it a 'very hard but very rewarding year'.
The Verdiblancos finished the 2011-12 season in 13th place, but have started this campaign in superb fashion currently sitting in fifth place in the standings.
And the Beticos owner has looked back over the 12 months and praised Coach Pepe Mel.
“It's been a very hard but very rewarding year,” he told players at the team's Christmas lunch. “The team has settled into the First Division and the future looks bright thanks to all their hard work.
“Pepe Mel is another example for everyone on how hard work can achieve success.
“He is happy and excited every day to come and work for Real Betis, because it is a club that represents the feelings of hundreds of thousands of people.
“We have also been able to restructure the debt and ensure that there is life in Real Betis.”
