Former Barcelona director backs Deco’s work but warns of Real Betis’ star-studded squad: ‘A team to beat right now’

Former Barcelona director backs Deco’s work but warns of Real Betis’ star-studded squad: ‘A team to beat right now’ Former Barcelona sporting director Ramon Planes believes Hansi Flick’s side are currently the team to beat in Spanish football, but has warned that Real Betis possess the quality and confidence to make their meeting with the Catalans a compelling contest. Planes has a personal connection with both clubs, having worked at Barcelona before later taking Ez Abde to Betis.  That experience gives his assessment of the upcoming encounter added significance, particularly with Manuel Pellegrini’s side enjoying an impressive spell and Barcelona looking to maintain their winning momentum. Speaking ahead of the meeting, Planes praised Betis’ development while reflecting on the time he spent at Barcelona and the progress both clubs have made. “They are two clubs that I really have a lot of esteem for. My time at Barça is something I’m proud of.  “Today Betis is at its best, one of the best in its history and I think it comes from the idea of Angel Haro and Jose Miguel Lopez Catalan, at the time, to build a modern Betis,” said Planes. Planes identifies Betis as a serious Barcelona threat Planes believes Barcelona enter the fixture in stronger form, but insisted that Betis have the players and tactical confidence to challenge the reigning champions.  The Andalusian club has developed into a team capable of competing with Spain’s leading sides, making this encounter a significant test for Flick. Ramon Planes has praised Deco’s work at Barcelona. (Photo by Valerio Pennicino/Getty Images) “If anyone can give them a run for their money, it’s the current Betis side; they’re in excellent form and brimming with confidence.  “They’re consistently putting in top-class performances; they proved that last season against the big teams.  “They’ve got a ‘star-studded’ squad, full of top-quality players, and I think it’s going to be a cracking match because both teams pack a real punch.” Planes praises Deco’s Barcelona rebuild Planes also praised Barcelona’s recent performances and the work of current sporting director Deco.  In particular, he pointed to the comeback against Galatasaray in Istanbul as evidence of the team’s confidence and ability to respond under pressure. “It’s clear that Barça are in good form. They proved it in the match against Galatasaray – such a difficult ground, and with the score at 1–0 down – the second half, when they came back with absolute confidence, was key.  Planes has warned Barcelona about Real Betis’ level. (Photo by Denis Doyle/Getty Images) “I think Barça’s transfer business has been very good and Deco is doing a fantastic job. He’s injected a lot of dynamism into the team and strengthened the squad.  “That makes them the team to beat right now,” added Planes. Barcelona face a crucial test before El Clasico With El Clasico approaching the following week, Barcelona sit at the top of the table, five points ahead of Betis and six clear of Real Madrid. Planes cautioned against overlooking Madrid despite Barcelona’s current position, while describing the upcoming spectacle as a match supporters should enjoy. “We mustn’t underestimate Real Madrid, because they have a fierce competitive spirit, but this match is one to sit back and enjoy.  “Anyone going to the stadium is lucky – it’s like seeing Shakira live – it’ll be a spectacle; I’ll be watching it from my sofa at home,” he concluded. Source: SPORT