Real Sociedad Faces Squad Overcrowding Ahead of 2026-27 Season

Real Sociedad is facing a significant squad management challenge for the 2026-27 season, with 27 players currently under contract. Manager Pellegrino Matarazzo will need to facilitate several departures to create space for anticipated new signings. This situation highlights the club’s strategic planning and the tough decisions required to balance the roster.

Squad Numbers and Departures

The current number of contracted players includes Jon Martín, who is expected to be integrated into the first team due to his growing importance. Players returning from loan spells or those who were on the transfer market last year are considered the most likely candidates for departure. These exits are crucial for freeing up squad numbers and financial resources for any incoming transfers. The club aims to bring in two or three new players, contingent on the success of outgoing player negotiations.

Goalkeeping Situation

The goalkeeping department presents an immediate area of consideration. Alex Remiro and Unai Marrero are under contract and have demonstrated reliable performances. However, Unai Marrero is entering the final year of his contract and could seek a new challenge if a suitable offer arises that also satisfies the club’s valuation. This potential departure could necessitate the acquisition of a new goalkeeper.

Defensive Options

In defense, the club has seen two departures: Aritz Elustondo, whose contract was not renewed, and Duje Caleta-Car, whose loan spell has concluded. However, the return of Javi López and Jon Pacheco from their respective spells will bolster the defensive ranks. They will join an existing group that includes Jon Mikel Aramburu, Álvaro Odriozola, Iñaki Rupérez, Jon Martín, Igor Zubeldia, Sergio Gómez, and Aihen Muñoz. With three left-backs available, one is likely to move on. While the right-back position appears stable despite Odriozola’s injury, the need for a central defender is apparent. Luken Beitia and Kazunari Kita from the reserve team (Sanse) are being considered, but a signing from the external market is probable.

Midfield Stability

The double pivot in midfield appears to be a settled area, with Jon Gorrotxategi, Beñat Turrientes, and Carlos Soler having had strong campaigns. Yangel Herrera is expected to overcome his muscular issues and play a more prominent role. This stability suggests that significant activity in this zone is unlikely unless unforeseen circumstances arise.

Attacking Midfield and Wingers

The line of three players behind the striker offers several options. The left wing is well-covered with Ander Barrenetxea and Gonçalo Guedes. On the right, Take Kubo’s future remains uncertain, and his departure could open up a spot. The coaching staff is reportedly considering promoting Job Ochieng, who has shown promise, although he performs better on the opposite flank. Pablo Marín is a versatile player who can operate in multiple attacking roles. In the attacking midfield role, the situation is similar to last year, with Luka Sučić, Brais Méndez, Mikel Goti, and Arsen Zakharyan potentially facing limited opportunities, especially if Mikel Oyarzabal is deployed in a deeper role, as he was at the end of the current season.

Striker Role

Orri Óskarsson has reportedly earned the starting striker position for the beginning of next season, unless Pellegrino Matarazzo opts to continue with Mikel Oyarzabal in that role. Jon Karrikaburu is not currently in the club’s plans, and Carlos Fernández is set to return only to potentially seek another loan or transfer. The club is also evaluating whether to include Gorka Carrera, the top scorer from the reserve team, or to prioritize signing a versatile attacker who can operate across various forward positions, similar to Gonçalo Guedes.

Datos clave
| Aspecto | Detalle |
|—|—|
| Jugadores con contrato | 27 |
| Entrenador | Pellegrino Matarazzo |
| Necesidad | Reducir plantilla para fichajes |
| Zonas clave a reforzar | Central, posible portero y ataque |

The decisions made during this transfer window will be crucial for Real Sociedad’s success in the 2026-27 season. Balancing the existing talent with the need for new additions, while managing contract situations and player aspirations, presents a complex but vital task for the club’s management and coaching staff.

Fuente: MARCA LaLiga – https://www.marca.com/futbol/real-sociedad/2026/06/05/real-2026-27-dejen-salir-entrar.html

Datos clave