Matarazzo: "Making his debut at the Bernabéu was a special emotion"

2026-02-14 10:52:51 / SPORT ALFA PRESS

Matarazzo: "Making his debut at the Bernabéu was a special

Pellegrino Matarazzo, Real Sociedad coach, is excited about his first match as coach at the Santiago Bernabéu stadium.

He hopes his team can continue their nine-match unbeaten run, stressing that the team must not make any mistakes, as Real Madrid players punish them severely. Matarazzo has spoken to colleagues and players, who have told him that the stadium is impressive and makes you feel small.

The “txuriurdin” coach has noted that his players have recovered well after Wednesday’s difficult match at San Mamés. He expressed his optimism for tomorrow’s match, highlighting the players’ good energy. However, Matarazzo is aware of the risk of injury after four very demanding matches in just 11 days. He assures that he will not risk any player if he is not sure of his physical condition, stressing the need for six players who can cope with 90 minutes, taking into account the five substitutions. He expects a very intense match, also mentally, as Madrid punishes any relaxation or mistake.

Regarding the options for the formation, such as Óskarsson, Wesley and Yangel, Matarazzo explained that even though they have not played 60 minutes in a row as he usually requires, the training minutes are important. He admits that nothing replaces the pace of the game, but believes that if a player is ready for 45 minutes, he can also handle 55 or 60. He spoke specifically about Brazilian Wesley, emphasizing that the pace of football in Saudi Arabia is very different from that in Europe and that the player has needed time to adapt. Matarazzo describes Wesley as a great talent who can contribute in the future, when he is able to play 60 minutes.

Matarazzo stressed that what he really likes is that in San Mamés the team played a brave and spirited football, and if this spirit is maintained, they can play their football and create more chances against Real Madrid. He added that the focus is entirely on tomorrow's match, not on past results or achieving a maximum score. Against Real Madrid, Matarazzo is clear: there is no room for mistakes, there must be high discipline in defense and finalize actions with the ball, without easily losing possession.

Finally, the coach also commented on the uncertainty surrounding Mbappé's participation, saying that the presence or absence of a player like him, and the position he plays in, changes the tactical plan to curb their strengths, also mentioning Vinicius as an example./ Taken from Marca

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