Matarazzo ready to unleash full-strength Real Sociedad against Barcelona
La Real boss names strong squad for Barcelona clash with youngsters Goti and Karrikaburu included, as Txuri-urdin aim to distance themselves from relegation zone.
Real Sociedad manager Pellegrino Matarazzo is set to field his strongest XI against Barcelona this Sunday, with returning striker Jon Karrikaburu making the squad alongside youngster Mikel Goti.
Squad updates
The build-up to Sunday’s crucial clash has been marked by a couple of notable absences for La Real:
- Orri Óskarsson remains sidelined after suffering another muscle injury during his brief five-minute cameo against Osasuna in the Copa del Rey
- Zakharyan is a late scratch due to discomfort
- Jon Karrikaburu makes his first appearance in a Matarazzo squad
- Academy product Mikel Goti retains his place
Three points against the Catalan giants would be massive for the Txuri-urdin, helping them create some breathing room above the relegation places in what’s been a surprisingly difficult campaign.
Expected lineup
Despite the squad tweaks, Matarazzo looks set to maintain consistency with his starting eleven. The American-Italian coach is likely to field the same team that’s started his first two La Liga matches in charge:
Remiro in goal, with Aramburu, Jon Martín, Caleta-Car and Sergio Gómez forming the back four. The midfield should feature Turrientes and Soler, while the attacking quartet is expected to be Kubo, Brais Méndez, Guedes and captain Oyarzabal.
The only potential change might see experienced defender Zubeldia replacing young Jon Martín, though the latter has impressed in recent outings.
Full squad
Matarazzo has named a comprehensive squad for the Barcelona test:
Goalkeepers: Remiro, Marrero, Fraga
Defenders: Aramburu, Aihen, Gorrotxategi, Zubeldia, Aritz, Caleta-Car, Odriozola, Marín, Jon Martín
Midfielders: Turrientes, Sergio Gómez, Carlos Soler, Ochieng, Brais Mendez, Sucic
Forwards: Barrenetxea, Oyarzabal, Guedes, Kubo, Karrikaburu, Goti
A victory against Barça would be just what the doctor ordered for a Real Sociedad side looking to turn their season around. After their recent struggles, three points against one of Spain’s heavyweights would be proper Bobby Dazzler for the San Sebastián faithful.