Matarazzo Era Begins: Real Sociedad's New Gaffer Takes First Training Session
American-Italian coach Pellegrino Matarazzo starts his Real Sociedad reign with key decisions to make on tactics, team selection and potential January departures.
A fresh chapter begins in San Sebastián as Pellegrino Matarazzo takes charge of his first training session with the Txuri-Urdin today at Zubieta, marking the start of a new tactical era for the Basque outfit.
First Day Priorities
Matarazzo’s initial focus will be assessing the fitness of key players, particularly Ander Barrenetxea who’s been nursing a muscle problem. The American-Italian boss will also be monitoring whether Orri Óskarsson continues as part of the first-team setup following his involvement in recent sessions before the holiday break.
The new gaffer has undoubtedly been in discussions with his coaching team – Omer Toprak and John Maisano – but faces immediate tactical decisions that could reshape La Real’s approach:
- Whether to maintain the 4-3-3 system that’s been the club’s bread and butter for over a decade (since Philippe Montanier implemented it in 2011-12)
- If he’ll stick with the core group of players favoured by interim coaches Sergio Francisco and Jon Ansotegi
- How to handle his first match against Atlético Madrid without suspended key players
Current First XI Status
The established starting lineup this season has typically featured:
Remiro, Aramburu, Jon Martín, Zubeldia, Sergio Gómez, Brais Méndez, Gorrotxategi, Soler, Kubo, Oyarzabal and Barrenetxea
Guedes has been rotating into the forward line while Aihen has featured in defense, but there have been few other variations in recent months.
Atlético Challenge and Selection Headaches
Matarazzo’s Atlético Madrid baptism of fire comes with significant challenges. He’ll definitely be without injured Yangel Herrera, while two crucial players – Zubeldia and Gorrotxategi – are suspended for his debut. Suitable replacements must be found sharpish.
January Transfer Implications
The coaching change could impact potential January departures. Several players who’ve struggled for minutes under previous management – Odriozola, Caleta-Car, Turrientes, Sucic, Karrikaburu and Sadiq – were rumoured to be considering exits for more playing time.
The new manager’s arrival might change their situations, as demonstrated by Sucic who already saw increased involvement under Ansotegi in the final two matches of 2023. It’s a proper clean slate for some of these players who’ve been on the fringes.