New Real Sociedad boss Matarazzo buzzing for Atleti baptism of fire
American coach Pellegrino Matarazzo can't wait to make his La Real debut against Simeone's Atlético Madrid, insisting his side will play to win despite the challenge ahead.
Pellegrino Matarazzo is chomping at the bit to make his La Liga debut in the Real Sociedad dugout, with Diego Simeone’s Atlético Madrid providing a proper baptism of fire this weekend.
Ready for the challenge
The American coach has hit the ground running since replacing Imanol Alguacil, and his enthusiasm was palpable as he faced the media ahead of Sunday’s clash.
“I can’t wait any longer, I’m really excited,” Matarazzo beamed, clearly buzzing to get started after what he described as a positive first week with the squad. The gaffer’s been proper impressed with his players’ readiness to embrace change and their work ethic in training.
Despite facing one of Spain’s heavyweights in his first match, Matarazzo isn’t shying away from the challenge:
“We’re going to play every match to win, regardless of the opponent’s name. Atlético is a challenge, but we’re ready to give everything.”
Team news
Matarazzo provided updates on his squad situation:
- Karrikaburu will miss out with minor muscle discomfort but should return next week
- Goti has been left out for tactical reasons, with the coach preferring other options
- Positive news on the injury front with both Óskarsson and Barrenetxea back in contention
- Ander Barrenetxea is ready for some minutes off the bench
Respect for Simeone
The contrast couldn’t be greater – Matarazzo taking charge of his first La Liga match against Simeone, who’s been in the Atlético hot seat for 14 years. The American was full of praise for his opposite number:
“Simeone is a wonderful example of a coach who has worked very well with a squad for many years. He’s created a sort of coaching brand by implementing his personality into the team.”
When asked about potentially emulating Simeone’s longevity, Matarazzo kept his feet firmly on the terra firma: “I haven’t even played my first game yet!”
What to expect
Fans shouldn’t expect to see the full ‘Matarazzo brand’ immediately, with the coach admitting he’s had to be selective with his priorities during a short preparation week. He’s focused on creating clarity in both defensive and attacking structures specifically for the Atlético challenge.
“It’s important that fans feel proud of this team again,” Matarazzo explained, emphasizing the need for energy, resilience during difficult phases, and always playing to win.
Atlético will be a proper test of the new manager’s tactical nous, with Matarazzo highlighting their quality, patience, and ability to capitalize on small moments to unbalance games. For La Real to get a result, they’ll need to be switched on for the full 90.
As debuts go, this is a bit of a Bobby Dazzler – but the new man in the Anoeta dugout sounds ready for his Spanish football adventure to begin.