Real Sociedad face defensive rebuild after Aritz Elustondo exit confirmed | OneFootball

The club said in a statement that Aritz Elustondo will not extend his deal and will leave Real Sociedad on 30 June. The Beasain-born defender, a captain and long-time dressing-room figure, ends 11 years with the first team.

His exit underlines the need to reshape a back line short on numbers and versatility, he has covered centre-back and right-back. Duje Caleta-Car could also depart, with the club not expected, in principle, to pay the four million buy option.

With Álvaro Odriozola still recovering from a serious cruciate injury, the right flank is thin. Young Iñaki Rupérez, who returned to full training yesterday, may be asked to step up.

The current picture leaves Igor Zubeldia, who also resumed training yesterday, and Jon Martín as the main defensive leaders while the club waits on further moves. Decisions this summer include whether to promote Luken Beitia and how to fit in Jon Pacheco after his loan at Deportivo Alavés.

Before he departs, Elustondo has the chance to start on Saturday at Anoeta against Betis. Jon Aramburu is suspended after five yellow cards in the Sevilla match, opening a place in Pellegrino Matarazzo’s XI.

It promises to be a special outing for the Gipuzkoan centre-back, his penultimate opportunity to bid farewell to the Real supporters from the pitch.

Source: AS