Matarazzo brushes off 'luck' claims as La Real's revival continues
Real Sociedad's new boss credits energy, determination and hard work for recent upturn as he deals with Kubo's injury blow ahead of crucial Celta clash
New gaffer finding his feet at Anoeta as positive results start flowing, despite key absences threatening to derail progress.
No luck about it
Pellegrino Matarazzo has come out swinging against suggestions that Real Sociedad’s recent upturn in form is down to good fortune. The American-born coach has overseen an impressive start to 2026, with La Real picking up seven points from nine available, including that statement victory over Barcelona.
“If we’re talking about luck, we should mention we didn’t have any in our first matches,” Matarazzo pointed out, referencing a previous Osasuna match where his side created 18 chances and missed a penalty.
Instead, the txuri-urdin boss attributes their improvement to:
- Intense training sessions addressing early errors
- Players’ determination and work ethic
- Improved mental resilience (bouncing back immediately after conceding to Barça)
- Strong team connection and cohesion
Injury headaches
The gaffer’s got a right old mare with Take Kubo’s injury situation. The Japanese star will be sidelined longer than initially expected and has returned to Japan to recover with his own medical team. Proper gutting news considering his brilliant recent form.
There’s better tidings regarding Icelandic forward Orri Óskarsson, who’s back in training and apparently banging them in during sessions. Matarazzo seemed chuffed with his potential, noting he scored “two goals in five minutes” during a recent training session.
Venezuelan midfielder Yangel Herrera remains unavailable for the Celta match but should return to contention in the coming weeks after being sidelined since October.
Sanse reinforcements
With squad depth being tested, Matarazzo has called up three promising youngsters from Real Sociedad B (Sanse): Ibai, Dani Díaz and Ochieng. The American-German coach praised the club’s famous youth academy, calling it “very special.”
Carlos Soler will miss the Celta clash through suspension, with Gorrotxategi likely to step in after impressing during the second half against Barcelona.
Tough test awaits
While La Real have found form, they face a Celta side on an absolute tear, having collected 16 points from their last 18 available. Matarazzo acknowledges the challenge but remains focused on performance rather than long-term goals.
“Let’s concentrate on winning each match rather than thinking long-term,” he insisted, keeping expectations in check despite growing optimism around Anoeta.