Oyarzabal: Real Sociedad is home; I'm happy here and not thinking about coaching

In a recent interview, Spanish attacker Oyarzabal discussed the upcoming World Cup semi-finals and his own situation.

Oyarzabal stated that he has no plans to become a coach in the future and also reiterated his loyalty to Real Sociedad. This summer, Barcelona, Juventus, and other teams were rumored to be interested in signing him.

France have amazing forwards. How do you deal with them?

"France are a strong team with excellent players, but we are capable of competing against any opponent. We must focus on marking their forwards, making them feel restricted and unable to pass and move freely – I won't name any specific player, because any one of them can pose a threat. As a team, we must focus on ourselves and do what we need to do. We play with stability and concede very few goals. In terms of teamwork, very few teams have rivalled Spain in the past few years."

Do you think Spain can win the World Cup?

"Why not? We are already on the doorstep of the final, so naturally we have the right to go into the match with high expectations. Now, every detail and every moment can determine the outcome, so we must remain calm, not get too excited, but not be too nervous either."

You’ve been performing exceptionally well for the national team. Do you feel the rival's defenders are paying more attention to you now?

"No, I think everyone is just trying their best to do their job."

Even in difficult moments, Spain play with great composure. When the game reaches a stalemate, who is the player to stabilize the team?

"There isn't one specific person who stabilizes the team; it's everyone together. This is the atmosphere we've created as a whole team. We need to maintain this state, stay clear-headed, and keep our feet on the ground, which is very helpful for us."

How many of your friends from Eibar came this time?

"Six of them came, and they were all very happy to be here. A few others wanted to come as well, but the ticket situation was difficult to resolve."

De la Fuente said that if he were to start a business, he would choose you and Merino as partners. What does he value about you?

"Perhaps it's because we are calm and collected and don't panic under pressure. I really am the kind of person who doesn't lose his temper and always keeps a clear head."

De la Fuente also said that if he had to choose someone from within the team to become a coach, it would definitely be Oyarzabal. So, will De la Fuente’s words become a reality?

"You never know, but right now I have no plans to become a coach. Once you've been a player, you know that coaching is really not a glamorous profession. As soon as the team has problems, the fans' first target is the coach. I don't know what the future holds, and I hope retirement is still many years away. At least for now, I really have no intention of becoming a coach after retiring."

I think you'd be better suited to being the president of Real Sociedad.

"No, let's leave that to someone else."

What can the World Cup offer a player like you, who enjoys the game but isn't keen on fame and fortune?

"It brings experience—an extraordinary experience. Everything here is unique; we are not used to this kind of atmosphere in our daily lives. Allowing family and friends to enjoy this atmosphere and experience everything around us is truly a precious memory."

Players always enjoy being in the limelight. How do you stay humble in such circumstances?

"Not necessarily. Players need to know how to handle both praise and criticism. Of course, at times, praise can be more dangerous than criticism. I think the key is to ignore these messages, stay grounded, have a close inner circle, and experience the real world beyond being a football player."

Reporters keep asking why you don't leave Real Sociedad. What goes through your mind when you answer?

"I've said it countless times: I am only here today because of Real Sociedad's support. When I was at a low point, Real Sociedad reached out to me and protected me, allowing me to move forward. I will always be grateful to Real Sociedad; Real Sociedad is my home."

There is a distorted idea in football today, seemingly that you can only find happiness by joining a regular Champions League team, but you, Simón, and Nico prove that true football isn't like that.

"It's not that joining such a team necessarily means unhappiness. At those teams, you might be able to strive for things you wouldn't strive for at Real Sociedad or Athletic Club. I believe some people can find happiness at those teams, but I am very happy at Real Sociedad right now. I am where I truly want to be, and I am very comfortable here."

How do you relax before playing against France?

“I listen to music or chat with my family.”

What kind of music do you listen to?

“Soothing music, such as songs by Leiva.”

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