Barrenetxea and Óskarsson return to squad as La Real prepare for Atleti clash
Real Sociedad welcome back Barrenetxea and Óskarsson while missing suspended Zubeldia and Gorrotxategi for crucial match against Atlético Madrid under new boss Matarazzo.
New gaffer Pelegrino Matarazzo has named his first Real Sociedad squad ahead of tomorrow night’s crucial clash with Atlético Madrid, with some familiar faces returning to the fold after lengthy spells on the sidelines.
Key squad changes
The headline news from San Sebastián is the return of Ander Barrenetxea after three weeks out with a muscle problem, while Icelandic forward Orri Óskarsson makes a welcome comeback after four months in the treatment room. Talk about perfect timing!
However, it’s not all bread and honey for the Txuri-urdin, who’ll be without the suspended duo of Jon Gorrotxategi and Igor Zubeldia. Young academy products Kazunari Kita and Ibai Aguirre have been called up to bolster the squad, while there’s no place for Mikel Goti or Jon Karrikaburu in what appears to be a tactical decision by the new coach.
Likely lineup
Despite their returns, neither Barrenetxea nor Óskarsson are expected to start against Diego Simeone’s side. Matarazzo looks set to make the following adjustments:
- Duje Caleta-Car should slot in for the suspended Zubeldia in central defence
- Either Beñat Turrientes or Jon Marín will likely replace Gorrotxategi in midfield
- The attack should feature Kubo, Brais Méndez and Gonçalo Guedes supporting captain Mikel Oyarzabal
Full squad
Goalkeepers: Remiro, Marrero, Fraga
Outfield players: Aramburu, Aihen, Aritz, Barrenetxea, Turrientes, Óskarsson, Oyarzabal, Guedes, Kubo, Sadiq, Caleta-Car, Sergio Gómez, Carlos Soler, Odriozola, Zakharyan, Brais Mendez, Sucic, Marín, Jon Martín, Kita, Ibai Agirre
This fixture takes on added importance with La Real desperate to avoid slipping into the relegation zone. Three points would be absolute diamond geezer material for Matarazzo’s men as they look to turn their season around.