Real Sociedad manager Pellegrino Matarazzo exuded confidence prior to his team’s Copa del Rey final clash with Atletico Madrid. La Real are aiming to secure their second trophy in five years, having last won it in 2021, and have been a surprising force in the latter half of the season.
This marks Matarazzo’s maiden final as a manager, facing the experienced Diego Simeone, who has guided Atletico in ten previous finals with the club, emerging victorious six times.
“I have immense respect for him. His work over the years has been exceptional; he possesses a very distinct style, which isn’t solely defensive but also compact. I appreciate the emotional intensity he brings to the game. In Germany, I was recognized as a tactical coach, while in Spain, I’m perceived more as an energetic coach – I adapt to what’s necessary for success.”
Team Selection Dilemmas for Real Sociedad
La Real are navigating several selection decisions. Jon Gorrotxategi and Mikel Oyarzabal have been declared fit. Unai Marrero had featured in all but one of their Copa ties until he missed two games due to injury, with the first-choice goalkeeper Alex Remiro stepping in.
“I made a decision last week and communicated it to our goalkeepers on Monday. They are aware, and you will see the outcome tomorrow.”
Yangel Herrera and Takefusa Kubo are returning to fitness. Kubo played 30 minutes last week, and Matarazzo was questioned about his potential start.
“Everything is possible, and Take is feeling very well. My general rule is that a player needs to be able to play 60 minutes to start, and Take can manage that. Yangel is in the squad, so he might play, perhaps not from the outset. Gorrotxategi is physically fit; he is a contender for the starting lineup. He has never had any issues with his physical condition, so he can start.”
The Emotion of a Copa del Rey Final
Matarazzo was highly optimistic regarding his players’ mental state heading into the match.
“We are doing very well, the players are performing exceptionally, and we are certainly ready for tomorrow’s final. This is my first time competing for a title, and it’s incredibly special. The players are in peak condition. Top condition. We feel very good.”
“We need to deliver both general and individual messages. We must ensure that everyone has the optimal level of intensity for the match; excessive tension can be detrimental, but we have very positive feelings. We are excited; it’s a positive pressure we’re experiencing.”
Real Sociedad enter the game as underdogs but Matarazzo expressed confidence 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’m happy and excited, though I haven’t prepared a song 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 game plan. If you have a well-defined plan, the players have avenues through which they can channel 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 was asked about the unexpected nature of their path to the final.
“We actually discussed that recently. Who would have imagined, 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 daily to improve. That has been our approach from the very beginning, with Jokin, Erik, Andoni, the staff, and the players, and that’s what has propelled us to where we are now. I am pleased with our progress and look forward to more.”
Under Matarazzo, Real Sociedad have won 11 of their 18 games, with losses only against Atletico, Villarreal, and Real Madrid. Their encounters with both Madrid clubs involved squad rotation and were away fixtures. On their route to the final, La Real also eliminated Basque rivals Athletic Club.
