Jon Martín, a diamond who keeps shining | OneFootball

Jon Martín scored his first senior goal against Levante, underlining the 19-year-old’s place in Real Sociedad’s defence. According to Diario Vasco, the centre-back has firmly announced himself at the top level.

He debuted at Benito Villamarín in May two years ago, with La Real chasing Europa League qualification against Betis. From that start he has grown into a leader.

Against Levante he made four interceptions, 11 clearances and won five duels, then rose above Australia’s Ryan to break the deadlock. He showed this aerial menace in the Youth League, heading a brace against Inter at Zubieta and almost a treble.

After the match at Anoeta he said he was happy to help with a goal but stressed defending is his job. He dismissed Levante complaints about a possible foul on the goalkeeper or the corner, calling it routine jostling.

Early in the season Sergio Francisco preferred Zubeldia and Caleta-Car, so Martín played only one of the first nine league games. An ankle injury cut short his under-20 World Cup trip, then he began playing full games and is now seen as first choice.

Since Pellegrino Matarazzo arrived in December, Martín has found rhythm and consistency. The coach praised his stability, defensive work and dominance in the air, and said the set-piece goal marked another step.

Born in Lasarte-Oria on 23 April 2006, he has played 43 times. He has renewed twice and is contracted until 30 June 2031, after initially extending to 2030. A fifth yellow leaves him suspended next game, so he should reach the Atlético final fresh.

Source: Diario Vasco