Season review: a cup to cherish, a league to forget
Real Sociedad's 2025-26 campaign was a tale of two competitions. The Copa del Rey triumph delivered the season's defining high – a historic trophy that will live long in the memory – but league form left plenty to be desired. Sergio Francisco and Ansotegi were among those assessed in the post-mortem, with Pellegrino Matarazzo's side finishing 10th on 46 points, a full eight places and plenty of daylight off the European spots they wanted. The cup win secures European qualification anyway, but the inconsistency across 38 league matches is the big thing Matarazzo has to fix over the summer. (5)
Duje Caleta-Car says goodbye
The Croatian centre-back has confirmed his departure from Real Sociedad with a heartfelt farewell message. "Gracias Real Sociedad por este capítulo. Irme como campeón y llevarme conmigo estos hermosos recuerdos me hará sentir orgulloso para siempre," Caleta-Car said. He leaves with a Copa del Rey winners' medal and the respect of the fanbase. (4)
Ibai Aguirre locked down until 2031
The club has secured one of its brightest academy prospects. Ibai Aguirre, currently with the Sanse setup, has signed a contract extension through to 2031. It's a statement move – Matarazzo has already shown he'll trust the academy, handing opportunities to young players late in the season, and Aguirre is clearly seen as a big part of the long-term plan. (2)
Erik Bretos skips end-of-season press conference
The football director will not hold the traditional season-closing appearance with the media. Fans looking for a clear, public accounting of what went right and wrong this season won't get it from Bretos directly – a decision that is likely to raise a few eyebrows given the gap between cup glory and league underperformance. (6)
Imanol Alguacil linked with major European project
Your former manager is reportedly moving away from the Osasuna job and toward something bigger on the continent. Details are vague, but the Mundo Deportivo report suggests Alguacil is in the frame for a high-profile European role – one to keep an eye on, especially if it reshapes the managerial market ahead of next season. (1)
Andreia Jacinto reportedly close to Real Madrid move
The women's team could be about to lose a key player. Reports out of Spain claim Real Madrid have a deal in place to sign Andreia Jacinto, with a €200,000 fee mentioned. Eintracht Frankfurt had also shown interest, but Madrid appear to have won the race. A significant blow for the Real Sociedad Femenino squad if confirmed. (3)