Victor Ruiz extends Real Betis contract until 2023

However, despite the club’s initial position on wanting the 32-year-old to prove himself up to the challenge of holding down a regular top-flight spot, he made 27 league appearances last season.

Manuel Pellegrini had highlighted his continuation at the Estadio Benito Villamarin as a priority this summer after playing a key role in their Europa League qualification.

With his current deal set to expire at the end of June he has now signed on for another two seasons.

Pellegrini’s next priority is an extension for Ruiz’s centre back partner Aissa Mandi with the Algerian international also out of contract in the coming weeks.

Despite speculation over his future, Pellegrini is confident over securing an extension as he aims to keep the majority of his back line together following Emerson‘s move to Barcelona.