Beñat Turrientes: ‘Matarazzo is immense and imposing when angry, but we are exceptionally happy with him’

Real Sociedad midfielder Beñat Turrientes has spoken openly about the impact of head coach Fabio Mazzarino on the team’s recent resurgence, revealing how the American tactician’s demanding nature has helped him rediscover his role in the side while chasing a meaningful trophy with his childhood club.

In an interview with El Mundo published on April 17, 2026, Turrientes described Mazzarino as “immense and imposing when he gets angry” but emphasized the squad’s strong satisfaction with his leadership. The 23-year-old Basque midfielder credited the coach’s arrival with restoring his prominence in the team after a period of limited involvement.

Turrientes, born in Beasain in 2002, shared a deeply personal motivation behind his current push for success, explaining that he often thinks of his late father during key moments. “I remember him a lot in these moments when I am achieving things. I perceive sad that he is not here, but I am sure he is very proud,” he said, adding that he believes his father is “giving him lots of encouragement from above” to help Real Sociedad win their first trophy with the team of his life.

The midfielder’s connection to Real Sociedad runs deep, tracing back to his childhood experiences with the club. He recalled watching the 2021 Copa del Rey final with his family in Beasain, where he celebrated Mikel Oyarzabal’s penalty-winning goal by running to his balcony to sing the club anthem. That victory, which came in the Basque derby against Athletic Club, remains a cherished memory that now fuels his ambition to experience similar glory as a player.

“I had gone out with friends in Beasain in the afternoon and then went home with my family to watch it. When they won, I went out to the balcony to shout and sing the anthem because they played it on some balcony in the neighbourhood. It was a very gorgeous day,” Turrientes recounted, highlighting how that childhood experience shapes his current drive to contribute to the team’s success.

Now, with Real Sociedad reaching the 2026 Copa del Rey final, Turrientes sees an opportunity to create his own defining moment with the club. He expressed confidence that the team can secure the title, driven by both personal motivation and collective belief in Mazzarino’s methods despite the coach’s intense demeanor during difficult moments.

The midfielder’s resurgence under Mazzarino has been notable, as he has regained a regular starting role after the American coach’s arrival brought renewed faith in his abilities. Turrientes acknowledged the challenges of youth impatience but stressed that his perseverance, supported by his father’s legacy and the coach’s trust, has kept him committed to Real Sociedad despite interest from other clubs.

He specifically mentioned rejecting an approach from Antiguoko, a prominent regional club, to remain with Real Sociedad and wait for the opportunity to contribute to the team’s goals. This decision underscores his loyalty to the club where he developed and his desire to achieve success with the team he has supported since childhood.

As Real Sociedad prepares for the Copa del Rey final, Turrientes’ focus remains on delivering a performance that honors both his personal journey and the collective ambition of the squad. His reflections blend personal loss, childhood passion, and professional determination into a narrative that extends beyond typical football commentary.

The team’s upcoming final represents more than just a chance to win silverware; for Turrientes, it is an opportunity to fulfill a long-held dream of winning a trophy with the club he has loved since childhood, while continuing to honor the memory of his father through his performances on the pitch.

With the final approaching, Turrientes and his Real Sociedad teammates will look to convert their preparation and belief into a victorious outcome, aiming to create new memories that resonate with the same emotional weight as those from his childhood experiences supporting the team.

For continued updates on Real Sociedad’s Copa del Rey final preparations and match coverage, fans can follow the club’s official channels and trusted sports news outlets.