Real Sociedad's sporting director, Erik Bretos, has definitively ended the transfer rumors linking Mikel Oyarzabal to FC Barcelona this week, confirming there was no offer and the player always wanted to stay. The report, from Mundo Deportivo, comes as Barcelona sits atop La Liga with a perfect record after three matchdays.
What did Bretos say about Oyarzabal?
Erik Bretos was firm when discussing Mikel Oyarzabal's future. Real Sociedad's top sports executive denied any market movement related to the World Cup-winning forward. "Oyarzabal wants to be at Real Sociedad," stated Bretos. He added that, even if a thousand offers had arrived, the player's will was clear: "He did not want to leave."
Bretos emphasized that retaining a key figure developed in the academy and with his trophy cabinet represents a success for the club's project. Real's message, according to the director, makes sense with achievements like Oyarzabal's, a player who symbolizes the Basque entity's identity.
How did Real Sociedad close the transfer window?
Real Sociedad's strategy this summer prioritized continuity for its important pieces. Bretos described a market where the main goal was "not to sell" fundamental players. Despite that approach, the club did see some departures in the final stages of the transfer period, which president Aperribay had technically closed a day earlier.
Mikel Goti eventually moved to Oviedo, an exit Bretos justified due to high competition in his position, with players like Sucic, Oyarzabal himself, and Carlos Soler. The executive suggested the change could aid the player's growth. Another departure was Jon Karrikaburu, who did not take his first-team chances after returning from Racing Santander, opening a spot for the youngster Carrera.
What happened with Dani Díaz?
One of the most significant exits was that of Dani Díaz, who moved to Croatian side Hajduk Split following a substantial offer. Erik Bretos acknowledged the player's talent, though he noted injuries and some inconsistency had marked his spell. Despite this, Bretos highlighted that the footballer's entourage always showed confidence in the club. The player was presented by manager Rino at Mendizorroza, a gesture that reflects Real's philosophy.
Bretos explained that the club's trust in its players is based on top-level demand. The idea, he said, is to show them a path of growth within the project, not to outright reject big competitions, but to prioritize coherent development. This policy applies to an attacking unit that, according to Bretos, has clear numbers and sufficient quality, with many options and depth for the season ahead.
What is Barcelona's current context?
These rumors fade as FC Barcelona enjoys a strong sporting moment. The Blaugrana are the only perfect leaders in La Liga, with 9 points from 9 after three consecutive wins. Their attack has been lethal, scoring 12 goals and conceding only 2, giving them a +10 goal difference. You can check their exact position on our standings page.
Barcelona's next challenge is a trip to Mestalla to face Valencia, scheduled for September 6. Los Che, currently in 16th place, will look to cut the leader's positive streak. All information on upcoming fixtures is available on our fixtures calendar. The squad, showing great collective performance, can be reviewed in the team section.
The closure of the market with Oyarzabal remaining in San Sebastián makes clear the player's commitment to his lifelong club, distancing any speculation about a move to Barcelona in the immediate future.
