Real Betis have reportedly sidelined Colombian midfielder Nelson Deossa from the first team amid swirling rumours that he is romantically involved with Daniela Sánchez, the eldest daughter of club legend and current director Joaquín Sánchez.

The 26-year-old Deossa, who joined Betis from Mexican side Monterrey for around €13 million, has not featured in the last four official matches despite being fully fit and having no reported injury. His sudden disappearance from the squad has sparked intense speculation in Spanish media, with many outlets linking his absence directly to an alleged off-field romance that has caused significant internal tension at the Andalusian club.

According to multiple reports, Deossa has been seen enjoying nights out in Seville, and rumours quickly spread that he is dating 19-year-old Daniela Sánchez — the firstborn daughter of Joaquín, Betis’ all-time idol who retired in 2023 and now serves as a club director and advisor. The alleged relationship has reportedly angered senior figures within the club hierarchy, leading to what some describe as a “silent punishment” from manager Manuel Pellegrini.

Deossa was signed as a promising talent capable of adding dynamism to Betis’ midfield, but his limited minutes this season have now been overshadowed by the off-pitch drama. The timing of his exclusion has fuelled the narrative: four consecutive games without even making the bench has coincided perfectly with the escalation of gossip about his personal life.

Neither Deossa nor Daniela have directly confirmed or denied the rumours, but both have posted cryptic messages on social media. Daniela shared an emoji suggesting boredom or annoyance with the chatter, while Deossa wrote “People talk about anything these days” alongside a motivational quote about fame — whether good or bad, as long as people are talking. The subtle responses have only intensified the speculation rather than quelling it.

Joaquín, widely regarded as the greatest player in Betis’ history and a beloved figure in Seville, remains a powerful influence behind the scenes. The prospect of his daughter being romantically linked to a squad player has reportedly created awkward dynamics inside the club, with some sources suggesting the situation has become untenable for the coaching staff.

This is not the first time Deossa has been associated with off-field stories. Earlier reports mentioned frequent nightlife outings in Seville, which some claimed affected his focus. However, the connection to Joaquín’s family has taken the scandal to another level, turning it into one of the most talked-about stories in Spanish football this week.

Betis fans are divided. Some defend Deossa, arguing that his private life should remain private and that performance on the pitch should be the only criteria. Others believe the club is right to protect its internal harmony, especially when a club legend’s family is involved. The story has also sparked debate about power dynamics in football clubs and whether personal relationships can truly be separated from professional decisions.

For now, Deossa remains available for selection but has been notably absent from recent matchday squads. Pellegrini has not publicly addressed the rumours, focusing instead on tactical matters ahead of important fixtures, including their Europa League campaign.

The incident highlights the intense scrutiny players face in a passionate football city like Seville, where Betis and rivals Sevilla dominate the cultural landscape. Joaquín’s larger-than-life status only amplifies any story involving his family.

As the rumours continue to swirl, Deossa will hope to put the controversy behind him and regain his place in the team through performances on the pitch. Whether the alleged romance is real or simply tabloid fodder, it has already created a major distraction at a club where family ties and loyalty run deep.

In the end, this saga serves as a reminder that in football, off-field matters can sometimes overshadow on-field talent — especially when they involve the daughter of a club icon like Joaquín.