“One day you’re in the mud, the next you’re in glory.” Ramón Martínez González, coach of Real Betis, used this phrase to capture the dramatic week experienced by the club’s futsal team. They went from being relegated from the Second Division to winning their first national title. Despite the disappointment of losing their league status, the team triumphed in the Copa del Rey, clinching victory in a penalty shootout against Jimbee Cartagena. Martínez emphasized the importance of those who stand by you during tough times, saying, “I stay mainly with the people who are with you in the mud.”
Before the match, Martínez’s message was clear: “This is won with heart and head,” downplaying tactics in favor of passion and enjoyment. He told his players to give their all and relish the moment, believing that their unburdened state allowed them to display the charisma and heart they had lacked in the league.
A Roller Coaster Journey
Reflecting on the journey, Martínez remarked, “Life is a real roller coaster. It does not have a linear process.” He contrasted the silence of their relegation from the First Division with the uproarious joy of winning the Copa del Rey against all odds. Despite starting with a 0-2 deficit, the team’s belief and effort led to their victory.
The team’s resilience was evident as they turned the disappointment of double relegation into motivation, focusing on the Final Four opportunity. “We have gone through hard times, and this victory is a huge joy for the fans. We owed them, and there’s nothing better than giving them our first title in history after the league setback,” Martínez said.
Martínez, who has been with Betis for six seasons, has taken on various roles within the team. Though unable to save the team from relegation this season, he achieved redemption with the Copa del Rey win, a potential turning point for the club’s future. The club’s leadership, including President Ángel Haro, witnessed this historic achievement.
Dedicating the title to his family, Martínez humbly stated, “I don’t have the answer for the next project. I am a club person who is where they need me.” He expressed his dedication to Real Betis, regardless of his role. As the club prepares for next season, key decisions will be made by José Manuel Guisado, ‘Mané,’ and technical secretary Rubén Cornejo, aiming to quickly regain their league status.
Cornejo highlighted the importance of mental resilience and second chances in sports. While some players may leave due to relegation clauses, the club remains committed to retaining key talent like captain Ángel Velasco, ‘Lin,’ Manuel Piqueras, Raúl Jiménez, and Jorge Carrasco. Additionally, Pablo Otero, under contract until 2026, will be a crucial player in the Second Division.
