Real Sociedad captain Mikel Oyarzabal has heaped praise on manager Pellegrino Matarazzo, crediting the American coach for the team's remarkable resurgence and their return to the Copa del Rey final. The Txuri-Urdin are back on Spanish football's biggest domestic stage for the first time since their 2021 triumph, a journey that has seen a dramatic transformation under Matarazzo's leadership.

Oyarzabal, one of the few remaining pillars from that victorious squad six seasons ago, spoke candidly about the emotions surrounding the final. As captain, he aims to project calm and confidence, but he admits that experience doesn't necessarily shield you from nerves. "Those of us who have been around longer might even be more nervous than the younger players," he revealed, highlighting the unique pressure of such a high-stakes occasion.

The homegrown star, a product of the famed Zubieta academy, emphasized the special bond within a squad featuring many lifelong Real Sociedad fans. "Being able to be here with teammates you’ve known for so many years is something you rarely experience," Oyarzabal said, framing the final as the culmination of a shared dream for the club's core.

However, the central figure in this narrative is undeniably Pellegrino Matarazzo. Since his arrival, Real Sociedad's season has undergone a profound turnaround, a fact not lost on the squad. "We owe him a great deal," Oyarzabal stated unequivocally. "Since his arrival, things have changed a lot, and it goes without saying how grateful we are." The captain's words underscore a collective belief that Matarazzo's tactical acumen and leadership have been the catalysts for this cup run, setting the stage for a potentially historic night for the club and its passionate supporters.