Abde has been focusing on his national team training at the Mohamed VI complex in Maamoura, Morocco, as they prepare for the 2026 World Cup. He recently concluded a demanding season with Real Betis, in which he played 43 matches, netting fifteen goals and providing thirteen assists. His journey now leads him to face Madagascar and Norway in friendly matches before entering a challenging group stage against Brazil, Scotland, and Haiti. Morocco is considered one of the favorites to advance to the later stages of the tournament, and Abde is poised to be a key player, potentially increasing his market value beyond the current €60 million release clause, a figure that Real Betis has set amidst inquiries from various clubs about his availability.
In Heliópolis, the club appears composed regarding Abde's situation, making it clear that there is no rush to make any decisions. Several factors contribute to this calm approach. Firstly, Abde's salary is manageable, and with the World Cup on the horizon, it is understood that his performance could further enhance his market value. As of March, Transfermarkt valued him at €30 million, a figure that seems outdated following his impressive season. Secondly, the club believes that the €60 million price tag is justified, especially considering that Barcelona retains a percentage of the player's rights, which complicates the financial dynamics of any potential transfer. Reports from ABC de Sevilla indicate that Barcelona's rights apply to the capital gains, exceeding the €7.5 million Betis paid in 2023 for Abde, and that the percentage fluctuates around €20 million depending on the final sale price.
Lastly, Abde himself is not exerting any pressure to leave. Currently in the process of changing his representation agency, he has been aligned with the club's interests, prioritizing his opportunity to play in the Champions League with Betis over joining another club that might offer a higher salary. This has effectively ruled out Newcastle, which had shown interest but has not met his criteria. Abde is focused on transferring only to elite European clubs capable of meeting his release clause or offering substantial financial packages while also providing him with meaningful competitive challenges, such as the pursuit of national and international titles. At this level, options are limited.
It is worth noting that Abde renewed his contract with Real Betis in October 2024, a year after his arrival at the club. This renewal acknowledged his significant contributions, and since then, he has only continued to grow and mature after an initially rocky start where he struggled to meet expectations. During the 2024-25 season, he successfully surpassed competition from Jesús Rodríguez, who was transferred to Como, earning the indisputable starting position. This opportunity has allowed him to have his best season yet, showcasing his scoring, assisting, and leadership abilities in the team's attacking plays. Replacing a player of his caliber will not be easy for Betis, who are adamant that any departure must come through a record-setting transfer, similar to the €48 million deal for Lo Celso in 2019.
Meanwhile, Betis is also considering other players like Altimira, Pablo García, and Natan, who currently have more favorable chances of leaving the club and could generate significant financial returns. The club's strong stance regarding interest from other teams in the Moroccan international indicates they are cautious, especially with the World Cup impacting the market. Abde could emerge as one of the standout players of the event, and Heliópolis is waiting to see if a stellar performance from this dynamic and offensively skilled player will entice major clubs to pursue him, potentially leading to offers closer to his release clause.
Similar players, such as Antony Gordon, have recently moved in the market, with Barcelona acquiring him for a fixed €70 million plus an additional €10 million in variables. This reinforces the Betis management's position that Abde holds a value exceeding initial assumptions. His age, international experience, training at Barcelona, and exceptional performances at both Osasuna and Betis elevate his market worth.
Another scenario for Abde involves continuing with Real Betis this season and participating in the 2026-27 Champions League as one of the key figures in Manuel Pellegrini's squad, which has adapted its playing style to leverage Abde's verticality along with Antony's presence. Heliópolis has no intention of dismantling its roster, and while some departures may occur, there is also a possibility that Abde will remain to compete in the premier continental competition. "It will be a pleasure to play in the Champions League with Betis," expressed Abde following the end of the season against Levante.
As reported by abc.es.
