Matarazzo: "Coach change doesn't modify my game plan"

Real Sociedad manager Matarazzo says Lyon's recent coaching change won't alter his tactical plan ahead of Thursday's Europa League clash at Anoeta.

Pellegrino Matarazzo held his pre-match press conference ahead of Real Sociedad's crucial Europa League fixture against Olympique Lyon on Thursday at Anoeta. The American manager confirmed his squad has recovered physically from the Athletic Bilbao derby and is ready for the continental challenge.

Matarazzo emphasized the importance of the competition, stating Real Sociedad need to finish in the top eight to advance. He warned of Lyon's attacking threat and their intelligent movement, noting his team must be compact and intense defensively while exploiting spaces on the counter. Regarding Lyon's recent managerial change, Matarazzo said it won't modify his game plan, as the club's style and players' understanding of it remain consistent.

The manager left open the possibility of making rotations given the fixture congestion, with a Rayo Vallecano match coming on Sunday. He also paid tribute to Tenerife player Jesús de Miguel, who died recently, expressing his condolences to the family and reflecting on the tragedy that has shocked Spanish football.