Matarazzo gets down to business at Zubieta as Real Sociedad's new gaffer
The Italian-American coach has begun work at Real Sociedad's training ground with his backroom staff ahead of his LaLiga debut against Atlético Madrid next Sunday.
New Real Sociedad boss Pellegrino Matarazzo has wasted no time getting his feet under the table at the Basque club’s Zubieta training complex, making his first appearance there on Saturday afternoon.
First day at the office
The Italian-American coach, who was only announced as the new manager on the 21st of December, arrived at the training ground alongside his trusted lieutenants Omer Toprak and John Maisano. The trio spent their first day getting acquainted with the facilities and planning for the challenges ahead.
While the players won’t be reporting for duty until Monday at 11:00, with pitch work beginning at 11:30, Matarazzo clearly wanted to hit the ground running. Can’t blame the geezer for being eager, considering the state of La Real’s season so far.
Baptism of fire awaits
Matarazzo’s diary is already filling up with crucial dates, none more important than his LaLiga debut next Sunday at 21:00 when Atlético Madrid visit Anoeta. Talk about being thrown in at the deep end!
The new manager faces the not-so-small task of hauling Real Sociedad away from the wrong end of the table. The once high-flying Basque outfit have endured a proper nightmare this campaign, finding themselves in a right two and eight (state) that few would have predicted after their recent European adventures.
Training week planning
The coaching staff’s immediate priority is mapping out their first full week of training sessions. With just seven days to implement his ideas before facing Diego Simeone’s Atlético, Matarazzo will need to be sharp as a tack with his preparation.
The American-born tactician will be desperate to make an immediate impact and start climbing the table. After years of punching above their weight under Imanol Alguacil, La Real fans will be hoping their new boss can quickly stop the rot and get them back to winning ways.