Ochieng makes history as Matarazzo's first Sanse debutant at Real Sociedad
Kenyan attacker Job Ochieng became the first Real Sociedad B player to make his first-team debut under new manager Pellegrino Matarazzo in their win against Elche.
The Kenyan forward has broken new ground at the Reale Arena, becoming Pellegrino Matarazzo’s first promotion from the reserve team to make his La Liga debut.
Matarazzo’s first Sanse graduate
Job Ochieng made history this weekend, becoming the first Real Sociedad B (Sanse) player to make his first-team debut under new gaffer Pellegrino Matarazzo. The Kenyan attacker got his chance against Elche, coming on in the 64th minute sporting the number 47 shirt - a moment the lad from Nairobi won’t forget in a hurry.
It’s proper timing for Ochieng, whose contract with La Real is set to expire on June 30th unless the club sorts a new deal before then. Talk about making your case at the right moment!
Speed merchant needs fine-tuning
While Ochieng showcased his blistering pace during his cameo, his final ball and finishing touch still need a bit of work. Still, getting minutes at the top level is a massive step for a player who’s been putting in decent shifts for Sanse under Jon Ansotegi this season.
Fourth time’s the charm
After being named in the squad three times previously without getting a run-out, Ochieng finally got his chance on his fourth call-up. Must’ve been well chuffed to not only make his La Liga debut but also to do it in a winning cause against Eder Sarabia’s side.
Reserve pipeline flowing
Matarazzo hasn’t been shy about bringing Sanse talents into the first-team environment for training and matchday squads. Ibai Aguirre, Kazunari Kita, Dani Díaz, goalkeeper Aitor Fraga and Ochieng himself have all been involved.
However, until the Elche match, only Dani Díaz had seen competitive action under the new boss - and that was in the Copa del Rey against Osasuna last Wednesday. Worth noting that Díaz had already made his debut under previous manager Imanol Alguacil, making Ochieng’s appearance all the more significant as Matarazzo’s first true debutant from the B team.
With La Real’s proud tradition of bringing through academy talent, supporters will be keeping their mince pies on who might be next to make the step up from Sanse.