Héctor Fort, the Catalan full-back who joined Real Sociedad in the summer, is beginning to leave his mark in the locker room and on the field. After a late arrival and an adaptation phase without a prior preseason, the 21-year-old player has managed to provide assists that are earning him the trust of coach Xabi Alonso.
Fort arrived in Donostia with a contract worth eight and a half million euros, but his integration was not immediate. Having not participated in Barcelona's preseason, he lacked competitive experience and the process of adapting to the Spanish league was a challenge. In his first games, the full-back played in several positions: with ten in Elche, in defense for five minutes and as a winger in Bournemouth, where he was substituted at half-time. Real Sociedad, with a young squad and in the process of consolidation, was looking for alternatives for the right back after Aramburu's injury and Matarazzo's lack of preparation.
Fort's real opportunity came in the 2024-25 season, when the coach gave him a space in the Real Sociedad defense. In the match against Málaga, the player made an assist to Take Kubo, although some portals do not count it. In the match against Levante, Fort once again demonstrated his ability, delivering a pass that opened the play for Óskarsson's goal. In both games, the winger showed a good balance between his defensive work and his offensive contribution, going forward when appropriate but remaining committed at the back.
Fort's development has been favored by the rotation of the squad in European competitions and by Real's need to have options on the right wing. Although his participation has been limited to matches against rivals considered inferior, the player is getting closer to becoming a real alternative for the coach. The presence of players like Aramburu and Zubeldia has added competition, but Fort's good performance in recent matches indicates that he is on the right path.
With the season progressing and Real Sociedad's roster constantly evolving, Fort is expected to continue gaining minutes and contributions. His ability to combine defense and attack makes him a key piece for the future of the right wing. The next few games will be decisive for the young full-back to establish himself as a regular option under the direction of Xabi Alonso.