Jon Martín wins backing from club legends as Real Sociedad’s new defensive linchpin | OneFootball

At 19, Jon Martín has shifted from Zubieta prospect to Real Sociedad’s first-choice centre-back, seizing a starting spot with composure. After beginning the campaign behind Zubeldia, Aritz and summer loanee Caleta-Car, he has become the most used central defender this season.

According to AS, he made his senior debut on 19 May 2024 against Betis, coming on for Tierney under Imanol Alguacil to reinforce the defence. That match proved key in securing Europa League qualification.

This season he has logged 14 La Liga matches and more than 1,260 minutes, plus four Copa del Rey games that helped carry Real into the latter rounds. He has won 71% of his aerial duels, ranking among the top five defenders in that metric, and his short passing accuracy stands at 92%.

Club great Alberto ‘Bixio’ Górriz has a soft spot for Martín after another standout display at San Mamés, praising his aerial strength and day-by-day development, and believing he will be very important for Real Sociedad. Agustín Gajate highlighted his personality and heading power, noting that of the three centre-backs it is Martín who is playing.

He signed a new deal in October 2025 that runs to 2031, and his release clause is 50 million euros. If Real can keep him, Gajate said, they have a centre-back for many years.

Source: AS