1995–96
Under Lorenzo Serra Ferrer, Betis impressed in their first season back in La Liga, finishing 3rd, only behind Atlético Madrid and Valencia. The team, built around Finidi George, Alfonso Pérez, and Alexis Trujillo, played attacking football that surprised many. This strong league finish earned them a place in Europe.
1996–97
Betis maintained their momentum, finishing 4th in La Liga and reaching the Copa del Rey final, where they lost 3–2 to Barcelona after extra time. Alfonso and Finidi again starred, while Serra Ferrer’s leadership established Betis as a competitive top-flight side.
