Real Sociedad regain Yangel Herrera for the decisive run-in | OneFootball

Yangel Herrera started for the first time since October at the Santiago Bernabéu on Saturday, a timely boost for Real Sociedad’s run-in.

As reported by AS, he had managed only five games and just over 163 minutes after a soleus tear and a relapse kept him out for more than three months. Sergio Francisco, who pushed to sign him in the summer, barely used him before being sacked.

Competition is fierce. Academy products Gorrotxategi and Turrientes are thriving, and Soler has been reliable further forward, so the Venezuelan must earn his place.

Real Sociedad paid around 11 million euros plus add-ons to buy him from Girona on a deal to 2030. Injuries have so far delayed the muscle and experience they sought after key exits.

Pellegrino Matarazzo is only beginning to gauge his true potential and was happy with his Madrid display, noting his pressing and composure. Even in limited action he has influenced games in the box.

He drew a crucial red card in the first league meeting with Celta, and has won two penalties, one against Sevilla and another at the Bernabéu. If his body holds up, those minutes in Madrid hint he would be fundamental as La Real chase a Copa del Rey final and European places.

Source: AS