Kubo left out again as Matarazzo demands more from Real Sociedad winger

Kubo remains benched for Real Sociedad; manager Matarazzo says the Japanese winger must do more to earn playing time.

Take Kubo was left out of Real Sociedad's match against Lyon at Anoeta, marking the fifth time in 15 games this season he has not played. The Japanese winger has started in only five matches, with just two starts in the last 11 games, and has accumulated fewer than 400 minutes total.

Kubo ranks 18th in the squad for minutes played, behind several players including Job Ochieng and Marín, who both featured against Lyon while Kubo remained unused. Manager Matarazzo addressed the situation in his post-match comments, saying he had previously spoken with Kubo and expects more from him. "Take is very talented, the minutes he has he has to use to earn more minutes," Matarazzo said. "He will have opportunities again, perhaps on Sunday." The manager explained that Pablo Marín was chosen for the Lyon match because his profile better suited the five-man defensive shape needed, with the ability to break forward and create space for attacking players.

Kubo will have another chance to impress against Rayo Vallecano before the November international break, after which he will rejoin Japan. He is set to remain at Real Sociedad in January as the Asian Cup has been postponed.