Real Betis have announced that experienced head coach Manuel Pellegrini has signed a contract extension with the club until the end of the 2025-26 campaign.

The Chilean's previous deal had been due to run for another two seasons, but there has been speculation surrounding his future this summer, with a number of Saudi Arabian clubs thought to be interested in his services.

Pellegrini has now come to an agreement with Real Betis over an extension, with the 69-year-old having another year added to his deal due to his success at the helm.

"Real Betis Balompie and Manuel Pellegrini have extended the contract between them for one additional season. This way, the Chilean coach will be in charge of the team until June 2026," read a statement on the Spanish club's official website.

"Manuel Pellegrini arrived to Real Betis in the summer of 2020. In the three seasons in which Pellegrini has been in charge, the team has qualified for European competitions. Also, under his management, Real Betis Balompie won the Copa del Rey 2022.

"Since his arrival, Pellegrini has become the third manager with most games in Real Betis history in the top division."

Last month, when questioned on the reported interest from Saudi Arabia, the experienced manager said that he wanted to continue his career at Real Betis.

"I have two more years left on my contract and I hope I fulfil them and that the team continues to improve," he told reporters at the time.

"It's hard to know what will determine the future, but I have two years left and I see no reason not to continue. There are rumours and it's a source of pride for a coach, but I'm happy at Betis and I hope to finish my contract here."

Pellegrini previously managed in Spain at Villarreal, Real Madrid and Malaga before moving to Manchester City, where he spent three years at the helm.

The South American then had a spell with Hebei China Fortune before moving to West Ham United, but he only spent 18 months with the Hammers before returning to Spain in 2020.

Real Betis have finished sixth, fifth and sixth in their three campaigns under Pellegrini, playing in the Europa League in the last two seasons. body check tags ::