Real Sociedad has reaffirmed its partnership with Amara Berri as an affiliated club, a strategic move strengthening its youth academy presence in Donostia. The agreement, signed after four years of Amara Berri’s ties with Antiguoko (Athletic Club’s satellite), returns control of a key talent pool to the txuri urdin. Real Sociedad, which finished the 2025 season in 7th place in La Liga with 42 points (11 wins, 9 draws, and 11 losses in 31 games), solidifies its youth development model with this step.
What does this deal mean for Real Sociedad?
Amara Berri, founded in 1984 as a sports project by family associations of Donostia’s educational centers, brings a strong structure: 16 teams and nearly 300 boys and girls in training. This return allows Real Sociedad to secure local talent, preventing Amara’s young prospects from ending up at Antiguoko, Athletic Club’s main youth hub in the region. The white-and-blue entity thus prioritizes a direct pathway to Zubieta, its training academy.
Why is this a blow to Athletic Club?
By cutting ties with Antiguoko, Amara Berri severs the bridge Athletic Club had in Donostia to scout young players. Real Sociedad, with a record of 49 goals scored and 48 conceded last season (+1 goal difference), strengthens its network of affiliated clubs in its own city. This move underscores the importance of controlling youth football in a historically contested territory.
What’s next for the txuri urdin academy?
With Amara Berri back in the fold, Real Sociedad reinforces its sense of belonging. The club, aiming to improve on its 7th-place finish (37 points behind leaders Barcelona) next season, is already working to integrate new talents. Meanwhile, the team prepares for its next La Liga fixture, a home game against Elche on February 28, 2027. Currently, Álvaro Odriozola remains sidelined due to injury.
