Elche travels to Reale Arena in a derby that carries more questions than certainties. Historically, the Franjiverde have struggled in San Sebastian, with 18 visits without a league win against Real Sociedad. The current standings offer little optimism for either side, as both teams sit on 32 points and occupy 16th place on the table. The Basque clash still places Immense pressure on the hosts as they chase a spot in Europe next season.
However, the visitors cling to a sense of purpose. Since the Soriano era began on the Franjiverde bench, the team has shown grit, pulling off victories against Villarreal and drawing with Betis. Those moments provide a spark that makes fans believe a meaningful result is possible, even if the path to three points remains narrow.
The week brought its own drama for Machín: two defensive starters were ruled out in quick succession, and the team faced injuries to key attackers. Boyé, though not Vinicius Jr., drew close attention as he prepared to contribute this Sunday. The Argentine forward was called upon to play and hopes to redeem a missed opportunity in the match against Valladolid, where he came in late and failed to convert the only clear chance.
Machín believes the curse can end against Real Sociedad and steers clear of talks about his future
There will be defensive reshuffles. Enzo Roco and Magallán miss the trip, joining other absences including Pere Milla and Cheikh, while Álex Collado and John trained with the group but did not travel. Machín faces a tenth defensive adjustment as he looks to balance the lineup for a Mallorca trip, knowing the Balearic attackers bring a different challenge than San Sebastián’s squad.
Bigas looks set to return, and captains Gonzalo Verdú and Diego González will contend for the libero position. Other positions are less likely to see major changes. Tete Morente could have been rewarded for a standout performance last weekend, a reminder of his impact in key moments.
The opponent is in a rough patch: Real Sociedad have won just one of their last ten matches in all competitions. Imanol Alguacil’s side have struggled for consistency, with a run that includes draws and losses across La Liga, a European exit, and a Copa del Rey knockout. Their most recent win came away to Espanyol in a 2-3 thriller. The rhythm of the season has not favored them, and fatigue is becoming a recurring theme as the schedule tightens.
The real Sociedad challenge in this fixture may come from timing and physical wear. After a grueling Europa League schedule, the club managed a late finish but has not found its best form in domestic competition. If injuries persist, Illarramendi could be called upon to anchor midfield as Mikel Merino remains uncertain. The attacking trio of Sorloth, Brais Méndez (nine and seven goals respectively), and the creativity of Silva stand as the principal threats to Franjiverde morale.
possible lineups
Real Sociedad: Remiro; Zubeldia, Le Normand, Diego Rico or Aihen Muñoz; Zubimendi, Illarramendi, Silva, Brais Méndez; Oyarzabal or Kubo and Sorloth. Other called: Zubiaurre, Barrenetxea, Cho, Guevara, Navarro, Gorosabel, Pacheco, Turrientes and Arana.
Elche: Badia; Palacios, Gonzalo Verdu, Bigas; Carmona, Gumbau, Mascarell, Fidel, Clerc; Boyé and Nteka or Ponce. Others called: Werner, Blanco, Diego González, Pol Lirola, Raúl Guti, Tete Morente, Josan and Nico.
In the broader context, both clubs know that a win would not only alter the mood around the locker rooms but could also shift the trajectory of their campaign as the season nears its final stretch. Fans hope for a competitive 90 minutes that delivers action, intensity, and clear signs of improvement from both sides.
Note: This overview refrains from linking to external sources and presents the current state in a concise, analysis-driven format. Citations are provided within the narrative as needed to acknowledge reporting and context from match-day coverage.