Real Sociedad's New Year charm could be tested by Atlético Madrid
La Real have an impressive decade-long record in their first matches of the year, but Atleti will provide a stern test for new boss Matarazzo's debut.
The Txuri-urdin have a rather tasty habit of starting the new year with a bang, making Sunday’s clash with Atlético Madrid an intriguing litmus test for Pellegrino Matarazzo’s managerial debut.
Decade of New Year cheer
Looking at the numbers, Real Sociedad’s form in their first matches of the calendar year over the past decade makes for proper reading:
- 4 wins
- 4 draws
- Only 2 defeats
They’re currently on a five-year unbeaten run in these fixtures - the sort of stat that might give the players a psychological boost before facing Diego Simeone’s notoriously difficult Atleti side at Reale Arena.
Memory lane
This positive trend began back in January 2016 with a 2-2 draw at Rayo Vallecano. The following year brought mixed fortunes - a Copa del Rey victory over Villarreal but a proper spanking from Sevilla in La Liga.
2019 stands out as particularly special, when Imanol Alguacil’s second stint in charge began with a stunning 0-2 victory at the Santiago Bernabéu on Three Kings Day. Bit ironic that some at the club seem to have short memories regarding Imanol’s achievements given recent struggles…
Recent history
The Basque outfit have been particularly solid in recent years:
- January 2023: Victories against UD Logroñés (Copa) and Almería (La Liga)
- January 2024: 1-1 draw with Alavés
- January 2025: Wins against Ponferradina (Copa) and Villarreal (La Liga)
Matarazzo’s moment
Now all eyes turn to new gaffer Matarazzo, who couldn’t ask for a more challenging first assignment. The players will be desperate to continue their New Year’s tradition against one of Spain’s toughest opponents.
For a squad that’s had a right mare in recent months, avoiding defeat on Sunday would provide a massive boost in confidence and potentially kickstart their campaign under new management.