Mikel Rodríguez, Ochieng and Balda called by Matarazzo for pre-season opener | OneFootball

Mikel Rodríguez, Job Ochieng and Mikel Balda have been called by Pellegrino Matarazzo for Real Sociedad’s first pre-season session on Saturday four July, though Balda will not start with the group as he continues his recovery.

According to Diario Vasco, only Aritz, Caleta-Car and Wesley have gone, there are no signings, and Matarazzo must settle Sanse promotions and loans before a campaign of at least 48 and up to 63 matches.

Left-back Balda, 24, collided with Kita on 11 May, suffered a heavy blow near his spleen and had abdominal surgery in Zaragoza after days in intensive care. He is working daily at Zubieta and has two senior outings, against Midtjylland and Jove Español.

Rodríguez, 24 and from Getaria, is yet to debut, though he was called up for the Jove Español fixture. He has 89 Sanse matches with nine goals and six assists, and if he convinces Rino he stays, otherwise he will go on loan.

His chances may hinge on exits in his area, such as Zakharyan or Brais, which would need convincing bids. Competition there includes Sucic, Soler, Marín and Goti, and while there will be many games, his impulsiveness has harmed him.

Ochieng, 23, the Kenyan winger, has impressed Matarazzo with his runs and end product, scoring nine in 25 for Sanse. He has three first-team games, the last as a starter, and the coach feels he could become important.

More under-23 players, such as Aguirre, are likely to join on four July and shuttle between the seniors and Sanse.

Source: Diario Vasco