Real Sociedad Faces Season Challenges with Key Injuries

Real Sociedad‘s challenging start to the new season has been further complicated by significant injuries to key players. Right back Hamari Traore is expected to miss the entire season after suffering a torn anterior cruciate ligament in his right knee.

The 32-year-old defender from Mali sustained the injury during a 0-0 draw against Getafe in La Liga on Sunday. The club confirmed the severity of Traore’s injury on their official website, stating that he will undergo surgery in the coming days.

This injury poses a major setback for the San Sebastian club, which now relies on Alvaro Odriozola, who has a history of injuries and is currently sidelined, along with promising young player Jon Aranburu as potential substitutes.

Additionally, the match against Getafe saw midfielder Brais Mendez exit the game with a limp. Coach Imanol Alguacil revealed to the media that Mendez has broken a metatarsal bone in his foot, which will also sideline him for an extended period.

Last season, Real Sociedad secured a sixth-place finish in La Liga, but this summer has proven difficult for the team. They have lost prominent Spain internationals, including Mikel Merino, who transferred to Arsenal, and Robin Le Normand, who joined Atletico Madrid.

In response to these challenges, the club successfully completed late signings on the final day of the transfer window, acquiring young Icelandic striker Orri Oskarsson from Copenhagen and midfielder Luka Sucic from RB Salzburg.

The current season has commenced poorly for Real Sociedad, featuring two home defeats against Rayo Vallecano and Alaves, followed by a victory against Espanyol and the recent draw with Getafe.