Real Sociedad women’s boss Gorka Álvarez looks ahead to Real Madrid challenge

Gorka Álvarez, coach of Real Sociedad Femenino, said he’s pleased with the team’s progress and warned that a match against Real Madrid is “a huge challenge”. Speaking at Zubieta, he noted the squad is in a rhythm of weeks with three games and that travel fatigue makes it crucial to manage physical loads and mentally approach the next fixture quickly.

A demanding opponent

Álvarez stressed that Real Madrid is packed with “high-level” players, but believes there will be options if they follow the match plan. He added that the visitors’ offensive style can leave gaps, while he also pointed out their defensive improvement, especially in pressure after losing the ball.

Injuries affect the plan

He confirmed that Arola and Chacón “won’t be available” due to injuries, with Arola’s case still being assessed. Marín is not out, and Sonya is in the squad, though the staff will decide how to use her. Real Sociedad’s focus, as Mundo Deportivo reported, is to keep building on the defensive order and make the difference by scoring.