Real Sociedade's Imanol Alguacil sets things straight with captain Mikel Oyarzabal – “When he's not here…”

After a frustrating fourth straight defeat at Basque rivals Athletic Club two weekends ago, Real Sociedade got back on track by beating Real Betis 2-0 at Anoeta on Sunday, a result that moved them a point ahead of Los Verdiblancos. He also healed some of the injuries from his derby defeat.

Txuri-Urdin returned to winning ways after a game against Athletic in which manager Imanol Alguacil had chastised his players for not competing and said he had changed them all at half-time . This time, he was much happier.

“It was the type of game that asked, for the team to convey maturity, security and not give,” he said. Relief.

“Neither of the two teams had a good game at the offensive level, but I understand that it was because at the defensive level we did a lot of work. We had the success of scoring the two goals in the first half. We worked a lot and a lot well defensively and they didn't have scoring opportunities.”

Alguacil also had words of praise for captain Mikel Oyarzabal.

“I will always defend Mikel. I said it last time. The day he is gone, we will understand what he means to La Real. I am very lucky to be and work with him every day. I am one of the great benefits of him that coincides with us. It's not the numbers that are the goals, it's what he gives to the rest of the team.”

Oyarzabal had criticized Alguacil publicly after his manager's comments, saying that perhaps they should examine his strategy rather than the team's commitment. The Euro 2024 winner was in a much happier place.

“The numbers and the winners are important, but also the affection of the people, of the fans and this is what I focus on. I feel that I am very supported, valued, that people value what I am and what I do and that That's the most important thing. I don't want to stop, I want to continue to help Real and put the club as high as it can be.

Real face Conquense in the Copa del Rey on Thursday, before traveling to Leganes on Sunday. Real Sociedad have been inconsistent this season, but the last few weeks have seen an improvement.