Oyarzabal to Barrenetxea: "We will be waiting for you, we will celebrate again, always with you"

Real Sociedad winger Barrenetxea faces five to six months out after a serious injury; captain Oyarzabal posted a message of support on social media.

Ander Barrenetxea has suffered a severe injury that will sideline him for at least five to six months, dealing a significant blow to Real Sociedad. The injury prompted an outpouring of support from his teammates on social media. Captain Mikel Oyarzabal posted a message alongside a photo of the pair celebrating a Barrenetxea goal at Anoeta: "Always with you, little one.

We will celebrate again, we will be waiting for you." Other players including goalkeeper Remiro, Marrero and Turrientes also shared messages of encouragement. Midfielder Mikel Merino, speaking from Spain's national team concentration, said he had yet to speak directly with Barrenetxea but that Martín Zubimendi had been in contact and keeping him updated.

"I'm sending him all the encouragement in the world because I know how tough it is for him to have injuries and miss call-ups like this," Merino said.