Gonçalo Guedes: A Key Asset for Real Sociedad

Gonçalo Guedes stands out as the most impactful signing made by Real Sociedad in the last three transfer windows. While it has not been particularly challenging to surpass the performances of many previous signings, Guedes has certainly made a mark. His recent goal against Atlético de Madrid was his fourth in the 17 matches he has played this season, all of which came in the last eight fixtures, underscoring his need for regular competition.

As expected, given his upward trajectory in performance, Guedes started in Pellegrino Matarazzo’s first team. He was actively involved in multiple attacking plays for Real Sociedad, notably forcing a save from Oblak with a well-placed volley.

The Portuguese international, who along with his teammates protested a disallowed goal just before halftime, later showcased his scoring ability by converting a well-placed cross from Kubo, leveling the match at Anoeta after Sorloth had put Atlético ahead shortly after the break.

Guedes appears fit enough to endure the full 90 minutes; however, he has completed only one match in the La Liga this season, specifically the game at Mendizorroza. In this instance, he was substituted in the 72nd minute, but not before contributing significantly to the team’s equalizer.

Moreover, the number 11 has quickly integrated into the locker room environment, actively participating in team dinners and events unlike some other foreign signings. He has emerged as the most effective acquisition from recent summers. While his predecessor, Soler, shows promise, Caleta-Car continues to raise concerns, and Yangel Herrera has been sidelined since his arrival.

From the previous season’s signings, Sergio Gómez remains active but struggles with left-back challenges, Óskarsson has returned after a four-month absence, and Sucic has not yet made an appearance, while Javi López is on loan and Nayef is concluding his own loan period. As for the 2023 signings, Zakharyan has yet to make an impact, Odriozola is not in the plans, and Becker, Javi Galán, Traoré, Andre Silva, and Tierney are no longer part of the San Sebastián squad.