Real Sociedad faces 42-player roster challenge

Real Sociedad's sporting director Erik Bretos and coach Matarazzo have been tasked with shaping the squad for the 2024-25 season. Their brief is to avoid the timing and decision errors that plagued the previous summer. The roster under review comprises about 42 players, counting the first-team members, players returning from loan and promising Real Sociedad B prospects who have featured in senior call-ups. The club has already secured the permanent transfer of Kita following his loan spell. Three departures have been completed, and the total does not yet include incoming signings. Real Sociedad will contest four tournaments this campaign, which could push the total number of matches close to 60. Such a fixture load leaves limited room for all squad members. Real Sociedad B will continue competing in the Segunda division. The reserve side will act as a safety net for some players, but not every individual can remain or repeat a place in the B team. The summer window will see promotions from the academy, new arrivals and various exits of different types. A number of players are expected to stay on to assist coach Ansotegi in the silver category, gaining further experience. Decisions made in the coming weeks will determine the depth of the squad for the demanding schedule ahead.