The clock is ticking inexorably in Zubieta as Real Sociedad prepares for Sunday's Basque derby. In the second of the four set-up sessions, American coach Pellegrino Matarazzo led the team with midfielder Aitor Fraga and winger Alex Marchal as the reserve team's only assistants. The day, which took place on Thursday at 11:00, went smoothly and without surprises in the work plan.
The day passed without any unforeseen events, with the entire squad present and without cup or continental commitments that interfered with the preparation. Players Álvaro Odriozola and Beitia remained on the sidelines recovering from their respective ailments, while Fraga and Marchal continued to integrate with the first team, a practice that has continued since the start of the season. Real Sociedad maintains a clean week, allowing tactical details to be refined without the pressure of additional matches.
With the squad in form and four consecutive league wins, the atmosphere in the locker room remains positive. The lesson learned after last season's dominance remains in the group's memory, and the team is already laying the foundations for the meeting with Athletic Club. The rehearsals scheduled for Friday and Saturday will complete the preparation phase before the derby.
The objective of Real Sociedad is to enter the duel with maximum physical and tactical preparation, taking advantage of the favorable moment of the course. The technical management maintains the same work philosophy, focusing on the cohesion of the group and the continuity of the squad. With the set-up completed, the team hopes to face the derby with confidence and determination, seeking to consolidate its position in the table and continue the path of success that has marked its season.