Ibai Aguirre signs new Real Sociedad deal until 2031, boosting midfield plans

Real Sociedad backs its academy: Aguirre signs new deal until 2031

Real Sociedad have moved to secure the future of Ibai Aguirre. The 19-year-old midfielder, a product of Zubieta, signed a new contract on May 28 that runs until June 2031. The Mutriku native is now set to be a key figure in the club’s midfield plans for the coming seasons.

The young pivot made his first-team breakthrough last season. He made his La Liga debut on April 4 against Levante at Anoeta under Pellegrino Matarazzo. Since then, his progress has been steady. He started last season with the C team and finished as an undisputed starter for Sanse in Segunda División.

Zubieta remains the hub for pivots

Zubieta continues to churn out midfielders for Real Sociedad. Aguirre joins a long list of academy graduates who have filled that role at the first-team level. They include Periko Alonso, Mikel Aranburu, Xabi Alonso, Markel Bergara, Gorka Elustondo, Jon Gaztañaga, Rubén Pardo, Ander Guevara, Igor Zubeldia, Asier Illarramendi and Martin Zubimendi.

The club’s reliance on its academy means it rarely needs to dip into the transfer market for that position. Currently, Beñat Turrientes and Jon Gorrotxategi carry the midfield load. Aguirre arrives to add competition and push for minutes.

Matarazzo puts his faith in Aguirre for a tough season ahead

Matarazzo closely monitored Aguirre in the B team and has called him up repeatedly. The Argentine manager sees the Gipuzkoan as a midfield profile with first-team potential. The youngster is already training with the senior squad in pre-season and will be assessed in the coming weeks.

Real Sociedad face a grueling campaign with four competitions in play. The final squad configuration is still up in the air. Aguirre will be among the academy talents Matarazzo considers when shaping his starting XI.

What’s next for Ibai Aguirre?

With his new deal in place, Aguirre now has a clear runway until 2031. His next challenge is to cement his place in the first team and earn minutes in a highly competitive season. The young pivot will compete with Turrientes, Gorrotxategi and others for a midfield spot in the Txuri-Urdin setup.