Óskarsson's road to redemption: 'The Alavés goal was massive for me'
Real Sociedad's Icelandic forward opens up about his return from injury, fan support, and growing confidence under Matarazzo as Copa del Rey final dreams grow.
The Icelandic striker finally finding his feet after months in the treatment room.
Bouncing back from the sidelines
Real Sociedad’s Orri Óskarsson has admitted his crucial goal against Deportivo Alavés two weeks ago has been a massive confidence booster after spending over four months on the treatment table. The young Icelander’s strike, which secured a 3-2 victory and sent La Real to the Copa del Rey semi-finals, has clearly lifted his spirits after what’s been a proper nightmare spell with injuries.
Since returning to fitness, Óskarsson has featured in nearly every match under manager Pellegrino Matarazzo, and his performances suggest he’s building up a head of steam. The forward certainly seems to think so himself.
“I believe I’m feeling better every day with more confidence. This is probably my best moment of the season, but I want more,” he told Euskal Telebista in a refreshingly honest interview.
Cup dreams and fan love
While being somewhat guarded about La Real’s chances of reaching the Copa final - noting only that they’re “in a good position” with the home leg still to come - Óskarsson was much more effusive when discussing the supporters’ backing.
The Txuri-urdin faithful have created a special chant for their Icelandic frontman, urging him to lead them to the final in Seville. It’s clearly touched a nerve with the player, who’s been blown away by the support despite his lengthy absence.
“It’s very popular, isn’t it? All my teammates blast it in the dressing room, and my mates send me videos of fans singing it during the Elche match,” Óskarsson revealed.
What’s particularly meaningful for the striker is the timing of this fan appreciation, coming after such a challenging period in his career. The Adam’s apple in his throat was practically visible as he expressed his gratitude.
“I want to thank the supporters for singing it in the stadium after four months of not playing due to injury. I believe it’s really positive for me and the team.”
For a young player still finding his feet at the top level, this kind of backing could be just what the doctor ordered as La Real push for cup glory and league position in the business end of the season.