Real Valladolid’s turbulent season ended in heartbreak as a humbling 5-1 defeat to Real Betis confirmed their relegation from La Liga and deepened tensions surrounding club owner and Brazil legend Ronaldo.
This marks Valladolid’s third relegation in seven years under Ronaldo’s ownership, and perhaps the most bitter. The team sits rock-bottom, having lost 13 of their last 14 games, with a staggering -57 goal difference that reflects a campaign marred by instability and underperformance.
The club’s fans have grown increasingly vocal, accusing Ronaldo of neglecting the team while reports swirl that he’s negotiating a sale. Their frustration has been fuelled by a lack of leadership and continuity on the pitch. Valladolid have cycled through three managers this season alone.
Current boss Álvaro Rubio, a former Valladolid player handed the reins in February, didn’t shy away from the harsh reality. “We can’t make up excuses,” he said post-match. “We didn’t play up to the level of the first division. We have to take responsibility.”
Despite flashes of promise in previous years bouncing back to LaLiga twice after relegations in 2021 and 2023. This latest drop feels heavier. It wasn’t just the losses; it was the lifelessness, the absence of fight, and the disillusionment of a fan base that once dared to dream under Ronaldo’s banner.
Meanwhile, Real Betis cruised through the evening, with Isco among the scorers, climbing to fifth with a second straight win. The Andalusian side continue to strengthen their European hopes as Valladolid look ahead to rebuilding again.
Elsewhere, the relegation battle remains alive. Leganés, down to 10 men early, clawed a stoppage-time draw against Girona. Las Palmas and Alavés are still fighting to stay afloat, while Sevilla’s sixth winless game leaves them nervously hovering just above danger.
