Real Sociedad: Matarazzo on Barrenetxea, Hassan & League Match vs Oviedo

Real Sociedad coach Pellegrino Matarazzo emphasized the importance of Saturday’s La Liga match against Real Oviedo, cautioning against underestimating the visitors despite their position at the bottom of the table. Matarazzo spoke to the press on Friday, providing an update on team injuries and assessing the strengths of their opponent.

“We want more in LaLiga,” Matarazzo stated. “It is an important match. Oviedo is a team that should not be underestimated. They are competing and putting rivals in difficulties. There are no teams to underestimate.”

The coach offered an encouraging update on Ander Barrenetxea’s recovery from a thigh injury. “’Barrene’ started training with us yesterday, but only partially. Today he trained more, but not 100% yet. The integration process has already started and from Sunday he will be almost there for the entire training session. He will be an option for the next game against Mallorca.”

Matarazzo also discussed Haissem Hassan, a key player for Real Oviedo. “Oviedo plays very direct. They have speed on the outside with a good one-on-one from Hassan. They have their qualities and every right to continue competing in LaLiga.”

Addressing concerns about potential distractions from the Copa del Rey, Matarazzo dismissed any impact on the team’s focus. “For me it is not important what people talk outside, it is important what we talk inside. And what we talk about tomorrow’s game. It is a very important game for us.”

The Real Sociedad manager also revealed a personal preference for the scheduling of matches, noting the benefits of a midday rest. “I take it as it comes, but I have to say that at night games… it’s the only day of the week where I enjoy a nap. We meet early, we get active, we do video and group meetings… and then there’s a three-hour period where we have time to rest and I have to say that I love the Spanish culture. I feel very powerful after the nap.”

Real Sociedad will face Real Oviedo at the Estadio Municipal de Anoeta on Saturday, February 21st, with kickoff at 13:00 UTC. The match represents a crucial opportunity for Real Sociedad to climb the La Liga table and solidify their position in the race for European qualification.