Real Sociedad manager Pellegrino Matarazzo conveyed a confident outlook ahead of his team’s Copa del Rey final clash against Atletico Madrid on Saturday. La Real are aiming to secure the trophy for the second time in five years, having last won it in 2021. The team has been a notable performer in the latter half of the season.
This marks Matarazzo’s first final as a manager, facing the seasoned Diego Simeone. Simeone has led Atletico Madrid in ten finals, emerging victorious on six occasions.
“I have immense respect for him,” Matarazzo stated. “His work has been exceptional in recent years; he possesses a very distinct style, which is not solely defensive but also involves compactness. I appreciate the emotional intensity he brings to the game. In Germany, I was recognized as a tactical coach, and in Spain, I’m perceived more as an energetic coach – I adapt to what’s necessary for success.”
Team Selection Considerations for Real Sociedad
Real Sociedad faces several selection dilemmas. Jon Gorrotxategi and Mikel Oyarzabal have been declared fit for the match. Unai Marrero had featured in all but one of their Copa del Rey ties until he missed two games due to injury, with first-choice goalkeeper Alex Remiro stepping in.
“I made a decision last week, and I communicated it to our goalkeepers on the first training day of this week. They are aware of it, and you will see the outcome tomorrow.”
Two players returning to fitness are Yangel Herrera and Takefusa Kubo, with the latter playing 30 minutes last week. When asked about Kubo’s potential to start, Matarazzo commented:
“Everything is possible, and Take is feeling very good. I have a general rule that a player must be able to play for 60 minutes to start, and Take can play 60 minutes. Yangel is in the squad, so he might play, perhaps not from the start. Gorrotxategi is physically fit; he is an option for the starting eleven. He has never had any issues with his physical condition, so he can start.”
The Emotional Landscape of a Copa del Rey Final
Matarazzo expressed optimism regarding his players’ mental state heading into the game.
“We are doing very well; the players are in excellent spirits. We are ready for tomorrow’s final, of course. It’s my first time competing for a title, and it’s incredibly special. The players are in peak condition. Peak condition. We feel very good.”
“We need to deliver general and individual messages. We must ensure that everyone has the optimal level of tension for the match; excessive tension can be detrimental, but we have very positive feelings. We are excited; it’s a positive pressure we carry.”
Real Sociedad enters the match as underdogs but Matarazzo is confident in their ability to manage the pressure.
“I feel great; I have no issue with the pressure. If I did, I wouldn’t be here. I am happy and excited, although I don’t have a song prepared in Basque. I am eagerly anticipating seeing our fans.”
“Generally speaking, in matches of this nature, it’s crucial to release tension and focus on performing well. I believe we need to do that tomorrow and be very clear about our intended style of play. When you have a well-defined plan, players have avenues through which they can channel their energy.”
Matarazzo and Real Sociedad’s Journey
The American manager was appointed to Real Sociedad when the team was in 16th place in La Liga, just two points above the relegation zone. He was questioned about the unexpected nature of their journey to the final.
“We actually discussed that the other day. Who would have predicted months ago, after our initial conversation, that we would be in a final? We don’t set limits; we aim to build, be constructive, and utilize every moment, every day, to improve. That has been our approach from the very beginning, with Jokin, Erik, Andoni, the staff, and the players, and that is what has enabled us to reach our current position. I am pleased with our progress and look forward to more achievements.”
Real Sociedad has won 11 out of their 18 games under Matarazzo, with losses only against Atletico, Villarreal, and Real Madrid. Against both Madrid-based teams, La Real fielded rotated squads and played away from home. On their path to the final, La Real also eliminated Basque rivals Athletic Club.
