Real Betis’ historic European final ended in disappointment but it was a congratulatory message from across town that added salt to the wound.
Just hours after Chelsea, led by Enzo Maresca, dismantled Betis 4-1 to win the UEFA Conference League, Sevilla posted a message that lit a fuse in the Andalusian capital. The note praised Maresca, one of their own during his playing days for winning his first European trophy as a coach.
Maresca made over 100 appearances for Sevilla during a successful four-year spell, lifting two UEFA Cups. The club’s message read: “Congratulations to our beloved Enzo Maresca on his first European title as a coach.” It was a line that riled many at Betis, still reeling from the biggest night in their 117-year history ending in heartache.
Betis president Ángel Haro didn’t hold back when asked about the post. “I haven’t seen it, but they’re now in another war,” he said. “We’re growing, focusing on doing well next year, and they’re in a very different war from ours.”
It wasn’t just a jab, it was a reminder. Sevilla finished the season one point above the relegation zone, while Betis secured sixth place and another European campaign. Haro couldn’t resist one final dig. “I also congratulate Sevilla on staying in the first division this year,” he added.
For Betis, the final marked progress and pain in equal measure. For Sevilla, the shadow games continue, even when they’re not on the pitch. In Seville, city pride runs deeper than silverware, and this episode only adds fuel to one of Spain’s fiercest footballing rivalries.
