Real Sociedad have set their provisional squad numbers for the 2026-27 season. Manager Raffaele Matarazzo has assigned the number 12 to young forward Job Ochieng, while Jon Karrikaburu retains 19 and Ander Goti takes the 22 shirt worn by Wesley last campaign.
Which squad numbers have been reassigned?
The number allocation confirms several players' places in the first-team setup. Ochieng, aged 23, has trained with the senior squad throughout pre-season and now receives a first-team squad number. The Kenyan forward scored nine goals in 25 matches for Real Sociedad B in the Segunda División last season, earning his debut with the senior side. His performance in the opening league fixtures will determine if he gets regular minutes.
Other notable changes include Arsen Zakharyan moving from 21 to 23, and Yangel Herrera taking the 21 shirt vacated by the Russian. Goalkeeper Álvaro Pacheco, back from his loan at Alavés, will wear the number 16 last used by Duje Ćaleta-Car. Jon Martín, despite being a team pillar, keeps the 31 from the reserve team for now, a move that leaves a first-team slot open for potential signings.
Which numbers are left open for new signings?
The provisional list leaves two numbers vacant: the 6, worn for years by Aritz Elustondo, and 25. This situation is directly tied to the transfer window, which closes on 1 September. The club is looking to reinforce central defence and right-back, and does not rule out adding a defensive midfielder and an attacker. The current squad, which you can view on our squad page, has room for these operations.
The board is working with the transfer window open, and further adjustments to the number list are expected in the coming days. According to data from our stats section, Real Sociedad finished last season sixth in LaLiga, securing European football. This factor is key to attracting talent in the final hours of the market.
How does this affect the sporting planning?
The assignment of squad numbers reflects Matarazzo's technical decisions about his group. Ochieng can no longer alternate between the first team and the reserves due to his age, so his inclusion with number 12 represents a clear bet. Karrikaburu, whose future could still lie with Burgos CF, keeps his number in case he stays. Goti, meanwhile, consolidates his place in defence following Wesley's departure.
The schedule for the coming season, available on our fixtures page, is demanding. The squad needs depth to handle LaLiga and the Europa League. The squad number list is provisional and subject to change until the market closes. The club is exploring several options and the next few days will be decisive in completing the squad with the desired reinforcements.
The work of the sporting direction now focuses on finalising pending signings. The window shuts soon and any movement will alter the final numbering configuration. Fans can follow the evolution of the squad and any new arrivals through the club's official channels.
