Jon Martín and Mamadou Sarr, a winning partnership that grows week by week

Real Sociedad's central defensive pairing of Jon Martín and Mamadou Sarr has solidified over five consecutive starts, improving the team's defensive record and winning form ahead of the Athletic Bilbao derby.

Real Sociedad's defensive partnership of Jon Martín and Mamadou Sarr has emerged as a key pillar of manager Matarazzo's project this season. The pair have started five consecutive matches together, with four full appearances and 45 minutes in Norway, and have responded with improved performances that have coincided with the team conceding fewer goals and winning more matches.

Mamadou Sarr, the 21-year-old Senegalese centre-back on loan from Chelsea, has grown into the role after a slow start to the season. Initially arriving late without pre-season football, he made his debut in the third match against Elche. After a period of adaptation and fatigue that saw him benched against Valencia, he returned refreshed following international duty with Senegal and has since become a regular starter. His physical and athletic capabilities are evident, particularly in open-field duels and his willingness to press opposing players high up the pitch, despite playing on his unfamiliar left-sided centre-back role.

Jon Martín, the academy product, began the season with some uncertainty but has regained confidence and form, particularly after moving back to his natural right-sided position. Playing alongside Sarr, he has chained together several solid performances.