Article by Cosmin Nistor – Published on Wednesday, 12 November 2025 21:02 / Updated on Wednesday, 12 November 2025 21:12
After the Europa League match with Lyon, Manuel Pellegrini (72 years old) launched a surprising idea that could change football forever. Real Betis manager backs introduction of basketball-inspired rule.
The Betis coach proposes a radical change that would transform the style of play around the world: “Once a team crosses the halfway line, they should not be able to return the ball to their own half.”
A proposal aimed at making football more spectacular
Pellegrini, known for his attacking style and innovative ideas, believes this change would force teams to play more vertically, attack more and reduce slow build-up phases.
“A more dynamic, more attractive, more offensive football would be played. The show would be guaranteed,” said the Chilean, according to Foot Africa.
Interestingly, the 72-year-old technician does not agree with Arsene Wenger's (76-year-old) proposal to revise the offside rule. In his view, VAR already works well, and complicating the rule would create more controversy than it would solve.
Pellegrini, one of the most notable coaches of his generation
The Chilean coach has been on Betis' bench since 2020. Under his command, the club won the Spanish Cup (2021/22) and reached the Conference League final, losing 1-4 to Londoners Chelsea.
Throughout his career, Pellegrini has coached the following teams: Manchester City, Real Madrid, Villarreal, Malaga, West Ham, River Plate, San Lorenzo, LDU Quito, Universidad Catolica, and has a total of over 1,200 official matches as a head coach.
In his coaching career, Manuel Pellegrini has:
