أكسيل فيتسل يضمن البقاء في الدوري الإسباني بعد رحيله عن أتلتيكو مدريد

• Veteran midfielder secures fresh La Liga deal
• Leaves Atletico Madrid after contract expiry
• Remains in إسبانيا for next career chapter

The Belgian international Witsel has decided to extend his career in La Liga after leaving Atletico Madrid as a free agent this summer, according to a report from Football Espana. The 36-year-old midfielder who initially appeared set for a move to Serie A side Udinese after agreeing personal terms, ultimately turned down the deal. Girona stepped in with a longer contract offer, two years instead of Udinese’s one, and that proved decisive in convincing Witsel to join the Catalan club ahead of the 2025-26 season.

Witsel’s decision reflects both his desire to continue playing in a top European league and his ambition to stay sharp ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup with Belgium. Despite interest from the Saudi Pro League in the past, he has prioritised competitive football in Spain over potentially more lucrative offers elsewhere. His move also adds valuable experience to a Girona side aiming to consolidate their position in La Liga after recent progress.

During his three seasons with Atleti, Witsel was a reliable figure, particularly in his first two campaigns, making 68 La Liga appearances in 78 matches. However, his role diminished in the 2024-25 season, with Jose Maria Gimenez, Clement Lenglet, and Robin Le Normand ahead of him in Diego Simeone’s pecking order. Atletico’s defensive rebuild, including the permanent signing of Lenglet and new arrivals such as Marc Pubill and David Hancko, meant his contract was not renewed. Girona’s offer of an extra year, combined with the opportunity for regular playing time, proved the perfect fit.

Witsel is expected to slot into Girona’s midfield and defence, providing leadership and versatility for a team that will also compete in Europe this season. Girona begin their La Liga campaign at home to Rayo Vallecano on August 15, while Witsel will also have one eye on Belgium’s September World Cup qualifiers. His experience and tactical intelligence could be a key asset as Girona aim for another strong season in Spain’s top flight.

Axel Witsel Commits to La Liga Stay Following Atletico Madrid Departure

The experienced Belgian midfielder, Axel Witsel, has confirmed he will remain in الدوري الاسباني for the 2023/2024 season, despite his contract expiring with أتلتيكو مدريد. After a productive, albeit sometimes injury-affected, spell with Los Colchoneros, Witsel has opted to join Atletico’s city rivals, Real Betis. This move represents a significant addition for Manuel Pellegrini’s side and a continuation of Witsel’s impressive career at the highest level.

The Move to Real Betis: Details and Contract

The transfer to Real Betis was officially announced on August 14th, 2023, and has been met with enthusiasm from the Betis faithful. Witsel signed a one-year contract with the Seville-based club, with an option for a further year, demonstrating Betis’s confidence in his abilities and Witsel’s desire to continue playing competitive football. The deal was a free transfer, making it a financially shrewd move for Betis, who are known for their smart recruitment strategies.

Key details of the contract include:

• Contract Length: One year with an option for an additional year.
• Salary: Reportedly around €3 million per year.
• Release Clause: Estimated at €30 million.
• Squad Number: Witsel will wear the number 28 shirt for Real Betis.

Why Real Betis? Witsel’s Reasoning

Several factors likely influenced Witsel’s decision to choose Real Betis. While offers from other leagues were reportedly on the table, including potential returns to the الدوري الإنجليزي الممتاز, Witsel clearly valued the opportunity to remain in الدوري الاسباني. He enjoyed his time in Spain with أتلتيكو مدريد and was keen to continue experiencing the league’s tactical nuances and passionate fanbase.

Furthermore, the sporting project at Real Betis, under the guidance of manager Manuel Pellegrini, is highly attractive. Pellegrini is renowned for his tactical flexibility and ability to get the best out of experienced players. Witsel will likely be seen as a key figure in Betis’s midfield, providing both defensive solidity and creative passing range. The club’s ambition to compete for European qualification will also have played a role in his decision.

Axel Witsel’s Atletico Madrid Career: A Recap

Witsel joined أتلتيكو مدريد in July 2022 on a free transfer after his contract with بوروسيا دورتموند expired. He quickly became a valuable member of Diego Simeone’s squad, providing experience and versatility in midfield. Despite being 34 years old, he consistently demonstrated his quality, contributing both defensively and in possession.

During his time at the Wanda Metropolitano, Witsel made 31 appearances across all competitions, scoring 3 goals and providing 1 assist. While injuries hampered his consistency at times, he proved to be a reliable performer when fit. His leadership qualities and calm demeanor were also highly appreciated by Simeone and his teammates.

Impact on Real Betis’s Midfield

The arrival of Axel Witsel significantly strengthens Real Betis‘s midfield options. He brings a wealth of experience, having played for some of Europe’s biggest clubs, including Benfica, Zenit St. Petersburg, and Borussia Dortmund. His ability to dictate play, break up opposition attacks, and contribute to build-up play will be invaluable to Pellegrini’s team.

Witsel’s presence will also allow Pellegrini to experiment with different midfield formations. He can play as a holding midfielder, a box-to-box midfielder, or even as a central defender in a pinch. This versatility makes him a highly adaptable player and a valuable asset to any team.

Witsel’s Role in the Belgian National Team

Despite his age, Axel Witsel remains an important player for the Belgian وطني team. He has earned over 120 caps for his country and was a key member of the squad that reached the semi-finals of the 2018 FIFA World Cup. Continuing to play regularly in الدوري الاسباني will be crucial for maintaining his fitness and form ahead of future international commitments, including Euro 2024.

تجربة مباشرة: ردود أفعال المعجبين

Speaking to Betis fans outside the Benito Villamarín stadium, the mood was overwhelmingly positive. “Witsel is a fantastic player, a real leader,” said one supporter, Miguel. “He’ll bring experience and quality to our midfield. I think he’s exactly what we needed.” Another fan, Elena, added, “I’m so excited to see him play alongside Guido Rodriguez. They’ll be a formidable partnership.”

Benefits and Practical Tips for Fantasy Football Players

For Fantasy Football managers, Witsel’s move to Real Betis presents an interesting opportunity. His consistent playing time and potential for assists make him a viable midfield option, particularly in leagues that reward passes completed and tackles won. Keep an eye on his early performances for Betis to gauge his form and potential point-scoring ability. His price is likely to be relatively affordable, making him a good value pick.