Player Watch Update: Jesús Rodríguez

Welcome to Player Watch, your go-to source for spotting football’s emerging talents. In this series, The Fútbolinho Network and Ultimate 90 dive deep into the performances of young and often under-the-radar players who are not just playing well but showing immense potential to become the next big names in football.

Today’s Player Watch article is an update on Real Betis youngster Jesús Rodríguez. Read the original article here.

Jesús Rodríguez playing for Real Betis in La Liga.

Since February

Rodríguez, 19, is now at two goals and two assists on the season. Los Verdiblancos head coach Manuel Pellegrini hasn't been able to take the young winger out of his starting team sheet.

The Spaniard started March hot with an assist against Real Madrid in Betis' 2-1 win at home. Rodríguez was fouled in the box when it was all square. Isco stepped up to take the penalty and scored against his former club.

In his first season with Los Verdiblancos, Rodríguez has played 25 games scoring twice and assisting twice.

Rodríguez's next goal contribution came in the UEFA Conference League quarter final. In the first leg, Betis hosted Polish side Jagiellonia Bialystok.

After some good team play, the winger went on the attack and dribbled around the box. He found Antony and continued his run goalwards. Two lucky deflections later, the ball fell to Rodríguez six yards out from goal which he placed into the back of the net.

As of March 1, Rodríguez has played in all of the 10 games Real Betis has had, starting eight and coming off the bench twice.

The Rumor Mill

According to Transfermarkt, the 19-year-old's market value grew 10x on March 21. Having played 25 games for the first team, the valuation makes sense. As the season continues though, his value will keep increasing.

Major European clubs are keeping tabs on the young winger. It is heavily rumored that Chelsea are interested in signing Rodríguez.

The Spaniard is on Chelsea's watchlist.

Although such rumors are flattering, it wouldn't make sense for the 19 year old to go Chelsea. He would not start and would probably be loaned out for his development. It is best for him to stay put for at least another season before exploring opportunities elswhere.

Season Winding Down

Currently, Real Betis are in sixth place in La Liga with seven games to go. With Spain sitting second in the UEFA coefficient rankings, five teams can earn a spot in the UCL next season. Los Verdiblancos are three points behind fifth place Villareal who have a game in hand.

In Europe, Real Betis face ACF Fiorentina in the semi finals. The first match will take place in Sevilla on Thursday, May 1.

With all the football left to play, Rodríguez will have plenty of chances to show off his ability. Do you think he should move in the summer, or should he stay at Betis and continue to develop?