Valencia vs Real Sociedad Preview: Team News & Prediction
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We have two of last season’s fallen giants clashing at Mestalla as Carlos Corberan and his Valencia side welcome a much-changed Real Sociedad on the opening day.
Kick-off date/time:
How to watch on TV: UK – Not televised / US – ESPN have the exclusive rights to La Liga games in the USA, so Valencia vs Real Sociedad may be televised on one of their affiliated channels
How to watch online: UK – Disney+ / US – ESPN+
Valencia preview: Trying to kick on
Having been circling the drain in La Liga for a few seasons due to their ownership issues, Valencia managed to stave off the drop last year thanks to the impressive appointment of former West Bromwich Albion boss Carlos Corberan.
Los Che even managed to push towards the top-half and the European spots. However, they have lost some key players this summer with goalkeeper Giorgi Mamardashvili having now departed for Liverpool, whilst Cristhian Mosquera has signed for Arsenal.
Real Sociedad preview: Change at La Real
Real Sociedad are embarking upon a new era this summer, with Imangol Aguacil, who has been in charge at La Real for over the last half a decade or so, having departed and been replaced by Sergio Francisco, as they continue their theme.
Like Imanol Aguacil, Sergio Francisco has come through the coaching ranks in the Basque Country, having previously been in charge of Real Sociedad’s C and B teams. They have lost Martin Zubimendi to Arsenal this summer, but little else has happened.
Valencia team news: Goalkeeper debate
The departure of Mamardashvili is made worse by the injury to Stole Dimitrievski for this opening day. Sergi Canos is sidelined for Valencia, with Thierry Correia a doubt.
Predicted XI (4-2-3-1): Julen Agirrezabala; Jesus Vazquez, Diakhaby, Copete, Jose Luis Gaya; Hugo Guillamon, Pepelu; Luis Rioja, Almeida, Javi Guerra; Hugo Duro
Unavailable: Sergi Canos (Injured)
Questionable: Dimitrievski (Injured), Correia (Injured)
Real Sociedad team news: Fully fit La Real
Surprisingly, Real Sociedad, known for their injury crisis’ in recent seasons, have a fully fit and available squad as they make the opening day trip to Mestalla this weekend.
Predicted XI (4-2-3-1): Alex Remiro; Alvaro Odriozola, Igor Zubeldia, Aritz Elustondo, Javi Lopez; Benat Turrientes, Sucic; Kubo, Brais Mendez, Ander Barrenetxea; Mikel Oyarzabal
Unavailable:
Questionable:
Valencia vs Real Sociedad prediction
Valencia and Real Sociedad will both be expecting to challenge to get back into the top seven and the European spots in La Liga this season. Valencia will be fast starters with the passionate support at Mestalla, whilst Real Sociedad have an abundance of talent and quality to bring on off the bench. As a result, it could be a topsy turvy opener, but both teams scoring would appear like a good bet.
Valencia vs Real Sociedad tip: Both teams to score
