Matarazzo's First Training Session: Four Key Players Missing as New La Real Boss Hints at Formation Change
New Real Sociedad manager Pellegrino Matarazzo began his reign without four important players and appears to be leaning towards a 4-2-3-1 system.
New Real Sociedad boss Pellegrino Matarazzo has kicked off his tenure at Zubieta with his first training session, but had to make do without several key players ahead of Sunday’s tough fixture against Atlético Madrid.
Missing in Action
As expected, the injured duo of Iñaki Rupérez and Yangel Herrera were absent, but there were two more notable absentees:
- Ander Barrenetxea - Still struggling with a muscle problem, making him a doubt for the Atlético clash
- Arsen Zakharyan - The Russian briefly appeared but quickly retreated to the changing rooms due to a fever
Meanwhile, both Gorrotxategi and Zubeldia participated in training despite being suspended for Matarazzo’s debut due to yellow card accumulation.
Formation Hints
After some initial ball work in progressively larger spaces, Matarazzo organized an 11v11 match with what appears to be his preferred 4-2-3-1 formation. The German-American coach split his available players into two groups:
Team 1:
Marrero, Aramburu, Jon Martín, Caleta-Car, Aihen, Marín, Soler, Goti, Sucic, Guedes, Sadiq
Team 2:
Remiro, Odriozola, Aritz, Zubeldia, Sergio Gómez, Gorrotxategi, Turrientes, Kubo, Brais Méndez, Karrikaburu, Oyarzabal
While it’s too early to draw concrete conclusions from just one session, the signs suggest Aramburu, Jon Martín, Caleta-Car and Aihen could form the back four against Atleti. In midfield, Turrientes paired with Gorrotxategi (though the latter is suspended), while Kubo, Brais Méndez and captain Oyarzabal look set to provide the creative spark.
The fourth attacking spot would likely go to Barrenetxea if he recovers in time, with Guedes as the alternative option.
Matarazzo faces a proper baptism of fire this Sunday at 21:00 at Anoeta. Talk about being thrown in at the deep end, but the new gaffer seems to be getting his ducks in a row despite the personnel challenges.