As the Copa del Rey final against Atlético Madrid approaches in just one week, Real Sociedad faces Alavés this Saturday at Anoeta. The primary dilemma revolves around whether to rest key players or keep them in form for the upcoming showdown.
Assessing Rotation Risks Ahead of Atlético Final
According to Diario Vasco, there is an ongoing debate regarding the necessity of resting pivotal players. Some experts advocate for prioritizing recovery time, especially with a week available before the final.
Injury Concerns and Formations
The team has a few injury concerns. Gorrotxategi played against Villarreal despite not being fully fit and is now doubtful for the match. In addition, Hancko, who is considered Atlético’s best defender, left the Champions League match on crutches. Losing a star player could impact Real Sociedad’s chances significantly, particularly as Atlético is the favorites.
- Oyarzabal: 26 matches out of 27
- Guedes: 22 matches out of 30
- Soler: 19 matches out of 25
- Sergio Gómez: 24 matches out of 29
- Aramburu: 26 matches out of 28
Many of these players are also international representatives, which adds to the fatigue factor.
Bench Strength and Final Preparations
With options like Aihen, Marín, Zakharyan, Óskarsson, and Kubo available, the tactic of rotating players can be beneficial. There are five substitutions allowed, enabling strategic shifts during the match against Alavés.
This final marks the first time the club will have fans present in 38 years, making the risk associated with player fitness particularly crucial. Previous experiences had shown that significant injuries can occur at critical moments. For instance, Merino once played with a fracture, and Monreal had to say farewell against Sevilla.
Winning Momentum and Confidence
Over 35,000 fans are expected to travel to support Real Sociedad. Many are anxious about potential injuries following previous encounters, like the match against Levante that saw players like Caleta-Car and Barrenetxea sidelined. On the other hand, some argue that seven days is ample time for recovery, a different scenario would exist if the final were scheduled for earlier.
Ultimately, winning this match could bolster confidence ahead of the final, positioning Real Sociedad well for a potential triumph in Sevilla. The historical precedence shows that coach Matarazzo rarely initiates player rotations before monumental matches, as demonstrated before the Copa semifinal against Athletic Bilbao.
In forming the lineup against Alavés, it appears that Caleta-Car and Turrientes will be absent. Meanwhile, Aritz is expected to step into defense alongside Soler, who will play a more withdrawn role. The team is likely to field their regular attacking options, reflecting a strategy that some deem risky, while Matarazzo views it as a precaution against future injuries.
