Zakharyan, Fort, Aihen, Pacheco headline Anoeta’s derby of opportunities | OneFootball

Anoeta hosts the Basque derby against Athletic on Friday at 19:00, the Euskal Herria Txapela 2026 final and a showcase for Real Sociedad’s fringe.

According to Diario Vasco, Matarazzo will pick the strongest side available, yet about 45% of his squad is missing, with nine internationals away and injuries to Odriozola and Zubeldia. Sanse call-ups are unlikely as they face Granada on Sunday at 14:00.

That opens the door for Marrero, Héctor Fort, Aihen, Pacheco and Zakharyan, while Gorrotxategi and Marín simply need minutes after injuries.

Fort wants to atone for a bruising debut against Bournemouth, with only two appearances so far, the Europa League tie and nine minutes versus former club Elche. Real paid 8.5 million euros for 60% of his rights and tied him to 2031 with a 60 million clause.

On the left, Aihen has just 18 minutes against Betis and the final 20 at Valencia, entering at 1-1 before it ended 2-3. He is on 201 games, two goals and five assists, contracted to 2027, with Bretos describing him as important and not rushing a decision.

Pacheco’s only action is the last 20 at Elche, when Sucic nicked a late win. He could make his case against Berenguer, Williams and Guruzeta, the only left-footed centre-back, now fit after ankle surgery, and he stayed despite Rayo and Elche interest.

For Arsen Zakharyan, 23, frustration and hope coexist after an 11 million-euro move. He has 17 minutes this season and 69 games overall, 29 starts, three goals and three assists. He should start, perhaps from the right with Guedes and Barrene, while Gorrotxategi, Turrientes and Soler are the likely midfield.

Source: Diario Vasco

“Artificial intelligence was used to assist in creating this article based on reporting from the original source quoted.”