Spain midfielder Fabian Ruiz has openly expressed his desire to return to Real Betis before retiring, saying the day of his homecoming is drawing closer. The Paris Saint-Germain star made the remarks at a civic reception in Los Palacios, near Seville, on 22 July, where he and fellow Spain international Gavi were honoured by the local city government — both players having been born in the town.

A Season Without Equal

The 30-year-old arrives at this moment of reflection off arguably the most decorated single season in his career. With PSG, Ruiz claimed the Champions League, Ligue 1, the FIFA Intercontinental Cup, and the UEFA Super Cup. At international level, he anchored Spain's midfield as La Roja defeated Argentina 1-0 in the FIFA World Cup 2026 final on Monday, giving Spain their latest world title.

Ruiz on the Ballon d'Or and Personal Ambitions

Despite operating with less fanfare than some teammates, Ruiz is now regarded as a credible contender for this year's Ballon d'Or. Speaking at the event, he was candid about both the honour and its limits. 'Who wouldn't be happy with a season where I have won the Champions League and World Cup? I can't ask for more. Everyone would like to win the Ballon d'Or, and it is an honour to be a candidate,' Ruiz said.

The Betis Dream: 'That Day Is Getting Closer'

Ruiz began his professional career at Real Betis before moving to Napoli in 2018, and his attachment to the Seville-based club has never faded. When asked about a potential return, he left little ambiguity. 'The truth is yes. I have always said that and never hidden it. I would like to come back, and that day is getting closer. I am a Betis fan, and one day, I hope to return to Betis,' he said.

World Cup Impact and a Milestone Cap

Ruiz played a defining role in Spain's 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign, scoring the crucial opening goal in a 2-1 quarter-final victory over Belgium. He also reached his 50th international cap during the tournament — a milestone made all the more remarkable by the fact that he has yet to lose a single match in a Spain shirt. This is the third major international tournament in which Ruiz has been a key contributor for La Roja.

What Comes Next

With his PSG contract still in place and no formal transfer talks reported, a move to Betis remains a future aspiration rather than an imminent deal. Nevertheless, Ruiz's public and repeated declarations are likely to keep speculation alive throughout the coming transfer windows. For Betis and their supporters, the prospect of their hometown hero returning — potentially as a decorated world champion — will be a story that refuses to go away.