Real Sociedad manager Pellegrino Matarazzo radiated confidence ahead of his team’s Copa del Rey final clash against Atletico Madrid. La Real are aiming to secure the trophy for the second time in five years, having previously won it in 2021, and have shown impressive form in the latter half of the season.
This marks Matarazzo’s first final as a manager, facing the experienced Diego Simeone, who has guided Atletico Madrid to victory in six of his ten finals with the club.
“I have a lot of respect for him. His work has been exceptional in recent years; he has a very clear style, it’s not just defensive, being compact. I like the emotionality that he brings to the game. In Germany, I was known as a tactical coach, and in Spain, I’m more of an energetic coach – I adapt to what I need to be successful,” Matarazzo commented.
Selection Decisions for Real Sociedad
The team faces several selection considerations, with Jon Gorrotxategi and Mikel Oyarzabal both declared fit. Unai Marrero has featured in most of their Copa ties, but with his recent injury absence, first-choice goalkeeper Alex Remiro has stepped in.
“I made a decision last week, I communicated the decision to our goalkeepers in the first day of training this week. They know it and you’ll see it tomorrow,” Matarazzo stated regarding his goalkeeping choice.
Players Yangel Herrera and Takefusa Kubo are returning to full fitness. Kubo, who played 30 minutes last week, was questioned about his potential to start.
“Everything is possible, and Take is feeling very good. I have a general rule that a player has to be able to play 60 minutes to start, and Take can play 60. Yangel is in the squad, so he might play, maybe not from the start. Gorrotxategi is physically fit; he’s an option for the starting eleven. He’s never had any issue with physical condition, so he can start,” the manager explained.
The Emotion of a Copa del Rey Final
Matarazzo expressed optimism about his players’ mental state heading into the crucial match.
“We’re doing very well, the players are doing very well, we’re ready for tomorrow’s final, of course. It’s the first time I’ve played for a title and it’s very special. The players are in top condition. Top condition. We feel very good.”
“You have to give general and individual messages. We must ensure that everyone has the optimal level of tension for the match; too much can be bad, but we have very good feelings. We’re excited, it’s a positive pressure we have.”
Despite Real Sociedad entering the final as underdogs, Matarazzo remains confident in his team’s ability to manage the pressure.
“I feel great, I have no problem with the pressure. If I did, I wouldn’t be here. I’m happy and excited but I don’t have a song prepared in Basque. I’m looking forward to seeing our fans.”
“Generally speaking, in these kinds of matches you have to release the tension and focus on doing well. I think we need to do that tomorrow and be very clear about how we want to play the game. If you have a clear plan, then the players have outlets into which they can invest their energy.”
Matarazzo and Real Sociedad’s Journey
The American manager was appointed when Real Sociedad were 16th in La Liga, just two points above the relegation zone. He reflected on the unexpected nature of their run to the final.
“We actually spoke about that the other day. Who would have thought months ago after our first conversation, that we would be in a final. We don’t set limits, we look to build, to be constructive, and to use every moment every day to improve. That’s been our path from the very beginning, with Jokin, Erik, Andoni, the staff, the players, and that’s what’s helped us to get where we are now. I’m happy with our progress, and I look forward to more.”
Under Matarazzo, Real Sociedad has secured 11 wins out of 18 matches, with losses only to Atletico, Villarreal, and Real Madrid. Notably, their encounters with the Madrid clubs earlier in the season involved rotation and away fixtures. On their path to the final, La Real also overcame Basque rivals Athletic Club.
