Mikel Oyarzabal Defends Real Sociedad Future

The Spain striker has spoken out about his future, confirming he has no rush to leave San Sebastián despite heavy interest from Barcelona. Oyarzabal, who has netted 16 goals in 17 appearances for La Rojas, including four at the current World Cup, emphasized that turning down a move to Catalan giants is entirely realistic. “You can say no to Barcelona,” he told El Chiringuito, “others have done it. Of course you can.”

Oyarzabal’s club career is almost entirely tied to Real Sociedad. The 29‑year‑old joined the academy in 2011 from Eibar’s youth system and has become a club icon, scoring 133 goals in 437 matches. He now captains the Basque side and described San Sebastián as his home, saying he is “incredibly happy” and “exactly where I want to be.”

Oyarzabal is on Barcelona’s radar. (Photo by Michael Steele/Getty Images)

Even though he appears content, Oyarzabal kept a narrow window open for the future. “Life can change fast,” he noted, adding that he would not rule out a move should circumstances shift. This cautious stance leaves fans and observers wondering if another club could pry him away later.

Barcelona’s Options as Alvarez Deal Stalls

Barcelona’s pursuit of Julian Alvarez has hit a roadblock, prompting Deco to look elsewhere for a striker. The club’s sporting director singled out Oyarzabal as a top alternative, citing his La Liga experience and affordable price tag. Real Sociedad is believed to be asking a transfer fee well below the €100 million needed for Eli Junior Kroupi, the Bournemouth forward also on Deco’s watch list.

Other than Oyarzabal, Deco is monitoring Kroupi, a 20‑year‑old French forward valued at roughly €100 million. The high cost of Kroupi makes him a less viable option compared with the relatively modest asking price for the Spanish international. Barcelona’s priority remains Alvarez, but the lack of activity from Atlético Madrid forces the club to consider credible backups.

An affordable alternative to Barcelona. (Photo by Francois Nel/Getty Images)

Oyarzabal’s remarks suggest that, despite the allure of a move to a European powerhouse, his present happiness at Real Sociedad is genuine. The striker’s loyalty and proven pedigree make him a valuable asset for any club, yet his focus remains firmly on his current environment. Whether Barcelona will act on his availability remains an open question, but for now, the conversation stays centered on San Sebastián.