Pellegrino Matarazzo has taken Real Sociedad to Birmingham for what the Spanish club describes as an intensified pre-season block, staging warm-up matches against Wolves and Aston Villa at Walsall’s Bescot Stadium.
Camp aims and local fixtures
The visit forms part of a lengthy preparation period ahead of a delayed domestic start. La Real will use nearly a month of training to sharpen fitness and tactical plans before their opener against Betis at La Cartuja. Two publicly scheduled friendlies in the region give supporters a rare chance to see the side close to home.
The matches will be played at Walsall’s Bescot Stadium, which has a capacity of 11,300. Both games are part of the club’s effort to increase the workload ahead of a season in which they will compete on several fronts.
Squad status, injuries and selection
Matarazzo travelled with a 28-man group. Several first-team members remain absent through injury or as transfer moves are finalised. Notable absentees staying at the club’s base include Odriozola, Marín and Karrikaburu, the latter sidelined with pubic discomfort while his exit is being arranged. Forward Carlos Fernández did not join the group in Birmingham and has been training separately at Zubieta.
- Travelling group: 28 players
- Not on tour: Odriozola, Marín, Karrikaburu, Carlos Fernández
- Players in Birmingham but not expected to play Wolves: Kubo, Sucic
| Player | Status |
|---|---|
| Kubo | In Birmingham; recovering from World Cup knee sprain, targeting Villa friendly |
| Sucic | In Birmingham; had first training session, will feature when ready |
| Carlos Fernández | Training alone at Zubieta; expected to move to Real Oviedo |
Transfer picture and squad planning
Despite confirmation in April that the club will play in Europe and contest four competitions this season, there has been no wholesale overhaul to the first-team squad during the close season. According to reports, the only promotions so far have been from Sanse, the club’s reserve side.
Recruitment remains focused and selective. Reported targets include a left-footed centre-back and a versatile forward. At the same time, an exit operation is progressing: defenders and forwards who have failed to convince are moving on.
- Outgoing moves already confirmed or reported: Caleta-Car and Wesley have departed after falling short of expectations.
- Aritz and Brais have left the club, the latter relocating to the United States.
- Carlos Fernández appears set to join Real Oviedo.
Competition for places
With departures noted, internal competition is expected. Goalkeeper Pacheco is being viewed as a third- or fourth-choice centre-back option after Aritz’s exit. Players such as Javi López, Aihen, Goti and Zakharyan have been highlighted as those who must impress during the camp to secure places in Matarazzo’s plans.
The camp in Birmingham therefore serves a dual purpose: sharpen physical and tactical preparation ahead of a congested season, and provide a stage for fringe and younger players to stake a claim. Local fans will have the opportunity to see the squad in action as the club continues to balance on-field preparation with off-field transfer business.
