Óskarsson’s strike rate strengthens his case to lead Real Sociedad’s attack | OneFootball

Orri Óskarsson has turned a difficult campaign into a persuasive finish for Real Sociedad. After three months out from September to December, the Icelander is using goals to quieten debate and push for a bigger role next season.

Sunday against Valencia underlined it. He smashed in the third after Mikel Oyarzabal’s through ball and stretched play with constant runs. With no World Cup for him, he wants a reset, and Diario Vasco reports the club are not seeking another centre forward, trusting Oyarzabal, Óskarsson and Carrera.

His start in Donostia was bumpy. A €20 million fee brought scrutiny he could not control and fitness issues persisted. Imanol considered him raw and very young, then a muscle problem cost weeks and part of the 25/26 pre-season in Japan, where he had to manage training loads.

A poor base preceded a breakdown on 30 August in Oviedo and a return on 4 January. Takefusa Kubo’s injury prompted the arrival of winger Wesley. Since then, Óskarsson has flourished, and the question is whether he sustains it to challenge Oyarzabal or if Matarazzo uses both, as in Vallecas when they each scored.

The numbers back him. In 835 minutes across 24 games he has nine goals, eight in the league worth seven points, plus the cup strike at Mendizorrotza that turned the Alavés tie. In the final he created chances but could not beat Musso in play or from the spot.

Only Stuani tops his strike rate, a goal every 73 minutes. Óskarsson scores every 94, ahead of Mbappé on 105 with 24 goals, Raphinha 107 with 13, Lewandowski 120 with 13 and Oyarzabal 180 with 15. If he scores against Espanyol he reaches double figures. Real, planning for four competitions and at least 48 games, are instead eyeing a wide forward who can also operate centrally. There is no intention to let Óskarsson leave, he will start pre-season and the goals will decide.

Source: Diario Vasco