The samurai’s long-awaited Real Sociedad return | OneFootball

Take Kubo is set to return for Real Sociedad this weekend after 76 days out, likely from the bench against Levante with his minutes managed. La Real have climbed into European places and reached another Copa del Rey final without him.

He was stretchered off on 18 January against Barcelona with a left hamstring injury. The setback reshaped the winter window, bringing in Wesley, validated by Matarazzo, who has barely been needed.

Kubo stayed in Japan to begin work with trusted physios, then undertook intensive gym sessions. He has trained with the squad for almost two weeks and on Monday completed his first unrestricted session.

“The only thing I can say is I will get there, how I arrive is another matter,” Kubo said in a recent interview with Onda Cero Gipuzkoa.

His reintegration will be gradual, so he is not expected to start on Saturday. Minutes from the bench should rebuild rhythm, and Alavés in seven days could offer a longer test that will help determine whether he has a chance of starting the Copa del Rey final against Atlético. In the short term he may be more useful as an impact substitute.

Competition is fierce on the flanks, with Guedes and Barrenetxea in form as Matarazzo now leans towards a 4-3-3. Guedes has 16 goal contributions, nine goals and seven assists, while Barrenetxea has shaken off a thigh issue.

This season Kubo has played 20 matches, 18 in La Liga and two in the cup, totalling 1,389 minutes. He has two goals, against Valencia and Levante, plus three assists.

Source: Diario Vasco