Oyarzabal: Real Sociedad is my home, where I truly want to be

Spanish winger Oyarzabal, who earned Player of the Match in the recent game, sat down for an interview.

Oyarzabal discussed Spain's match against Saudi Arabia and addressed transfer speculation.

You had an excellent performance with 2 goals and 1 assist against Saudi Arabia, earning you Player of the Match. However, we heard you were dealing with an injury scare a few days ago. Could you tell us about that?

"Last Friday during training, after completing a move, I felt some discomfort. I thought it might be a muscle cramp, but I was also worried it could be something that might affect my availability for upcoming matches. Fortunately, after assessment, I was fine and able to play, and I performed well. In those moments, you inevitably think about worst-case scenarios—my biggest concern was whether this could end my World Cup. In tournaments with packed schedules, even minor injuries can rule you out for crucial matches. But luckily, everything turned out well."

Was that first half against Saudi Arabia the best you've played in your career?

"I'm not sure if it was. I think I've had first halves of a similar standard before. I was in good form, and I was fortunate to be in the right place, receive good passes from my teammates, and finish clinically. I'm very pleased with my performance, but that match is behind us now, and I need to focus on preparing for the next one—that's football."

Is this Player of the Match award important to you?

"This week I was talking with my parents, and they showed me a family photo from the 2006 World Cup. That year we traveled to Germany to watch some matches. Now, standing here as a member of the Spanish national team and winning the World Cup Player of the Match award, it's something I never imagined as a child. Honestly, I don't place much importance on a single-match award, but since I received it, I certainly treasure it—it's very special. I have a display case at home with jerseys and awards I've collected over the years, and this award will definitely have a prominent place there."

Your name has appeared on the transfer lists of several top clubs. If you continue this form, the rumors will surely intensify...

"Right now I'm focused on helping Spain get a win in three days—our next opponent is Uruguay, and that's all I'm thinking about. I've said it many times: Real Sociedad is my home, and it's clear that I'm exactly where I want to be. Real Sociedad gave me the opportunity to play in the World Cup, and I'm grateful for that, working hard to stay in top form and help Spain advance for another month."

Some people overlook your abilities because you haven't won major trophies at club level, but you've actually helped Real Sociedad win two significant titles.

"I don't even want to answer questions like that anymore. People can say what they want; I don't care."

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