Riquelme: "I hope the best version of me is still there
According to Mundodeportivo.
Context
Rodrigo Riquelme, after a disappointing season, started the new season with a decisive goal, which could indicate a significant recovery in his form. His ability to contribute both offensively and defensively will be crucial for Real Betis as they look for stability and a place in European competition.
Why this matters
Real Betis' victory over Real Sociedad marks a promising start to the new La Liga season. Riquelme's goal not only secured the three points, but also symbolizes a possible turning point in his career, after a difficult year. For Betis fans, this triumph is a sign that the team can fight for a place in European competitions, something that is crucial for the club's future.
Main conclusions
- Riquelme: "I hope the best version of me is still there.
- Riquelme scored the winning goal for Betis in their La Liga opener against Real Sociedad and stated that his best version is yet to come, after a previous season with just one goal in the league.
- Riquelme: "My best version is yet to come."
Rodrigo Riquelme started the new season on the right foot and with a clear message of ambition. “I hope that the best version of me is yet to come,” said the Spanish winger, after scoring the goal that guaranteed Real Betis' victory in the start of La Liga, against Real Sociedad. A happy outcome for the Andalusians and a sign that the Betico jersey intends to turn the page on last year.
In 2025/26, the striker scored just one goal in the Spanish championship with Betis. That goal came in the final stretch of the league, in a 2-3 in Montilivi against Girona, counting for the 33rd round. His modest record and perceived contribution below expectations earned him criticism throughout the season. Now, however, the sensations have changed. The performances in the pre-season had already left good indicators and, in the first official game, Riquelme responded with what counts most: a decisive goal and three points in his bag.
Without getting hung up on easy numbers or promises, the Spanish international reinforced the idea that there is room for growth. The technical gesture that decided the match and his availability to help the team, both inside and wide, underline the player's usefulness in the Bética formation model. For a team that aspires to stability and a place in European competitions, starting the league by winning — and doing so against a Real Sociedad that has been a constant presence in UEFA competitions — is more than a detail: it is a mental and competitive boost.
Real Sociedad presented the usual difficulties in terms of tactics and intensity without the ball, but Betis knew how to take advantage of the right moment to hurt the opponent. Riquelme's action in the goal reflects the confidence that the Spaniard brought from pre-season, where he had already shown good form. The response in this inaugural game suggests a more influential role in 2026/27, both in creation and finishing.
The challenge for Riquelme now involves continuing: repeating his assertiveness in the last third, maintaining discretion in decisions and sustaining the positive aggressiveness he showed at the start. After a season in which success in definition zones was intermittent, the winger seems committed to transforming the narrative. With the calendar tightening in the coming weeks and the internal competition for minutes intensifying, each contribution could be decisive.
For Betis, winning the first time and signing a player who was looking for affirmation is excellent news. For Riquelme, the goal that made his winning debut in La Liga is the first step towards proving what he himself anticipates: the best version can — and wants — to arrive.
What happens next
With renewed confidence, Riquelme and Real Betis hope to maintain their good form in the next rounds of La Liga. The focus now will be on continuing to score points and consolidate their position in the table, especially with the pressure of competing against teams like Girona. Riquelme's performance will be fundamental to Betis' success this season.
Frequently asked questions
What was the result of the game between Real Betis and Real Sociedad?
Real Betis beat Real Sociedad at the start of La Liga.
Who scored the decisive goal for Real Betis?
Rodrigo Riquelme scored the decisive goal that secured Real Betis' victory.
How does the result impact the La Liga table?
Real Betis' victory in the first league game is a positive and competitive boost, important for the team's ambition to achieve a place in European competitions.
What's Real Betis' next game?
Real Betis' next game has not yet been mentioned in the article.
How did Riquelme perform last season?
In the 2025/26 season, Riquelme scored just one goal in the Spanish championship, which generated criticism
as to its performance.