EXCLUSIVE: Illarramendi Confident Real Sociedad Can Overcome Real Madrid in Upcoming Clash

The ex-midfielder of Real Sociedad and Real Madrid has responded to Flashscore’s inquiries in anticipation of the Copa del Rey semi-final second leg between the two clubs later tonight.

Asier Illarramendi currently finds himself without a club, having last featured for MLS outfit FC Dallas in October 2024. He assures us that his journey in football isn’t finished, expressing his eagerness for new challenges: “I’m still training and eagerly seeking a new opportunity.”, he shares.

This conversation comes at a pivotal moment, as few players have the intimate knowledge of both Real Sociedad and Real Madrid akin to Illarramendi. Throughout the interview, the Mutriku-born midfielder reminisced about his stint at Real Madrid, evaluated the upcoming clash in the Copa del Rey, discussed his own future, and made predictions about Martin Zubimendi’s trajectory.

Determined to Keep Playing

Question: How are you feeling personally and professionally at this time?

Answer: “Honestly, I’m doing well. I’m training with a physical coach and occasionally on the pitch with another teammate who is also a free agent. I’m staying fit and motivated, eager to continue, as this is my biggest passion and I’m committed to maintaining my training while searching for a new opportunity.”

Q: Are we likely to see you in a new team soon, and how do you perceive the near future?

A: “I feel very good, calm, and eager to keep enjoying football.”

Q: What did you make of your experience in Dallas and playing in MLS?

A: “It was a fantastic experience, immensely rewarding on both a sporting and personal level. There were certainly differences when moving to a new country, but we adapted quickly to the city, the club, and my teammates… which made the transition easier. In terms of football, the 2024 season was my highest scoring since the 2017/18 campaign, so I enjoyed some great moments in Dallas.”

The Optimism of Real Sociedad

Q: Real Sociedad secured a victory this weekend after a long stretch without one… How do you view the team ahead of the match against Real Madrid?

A: “This win is a boost to our confidence as we head into the clash at the Bernabeu. While the team may not have been at its peak, they’ve consistently shown their determination when it matters most. I am confident that, despite facing a formidable rival, they will compete fiercely and make Real Madrid earn their victory, just as they did at the Reale Arena.”

Q: How hopeful should Real Sociedad fans be about reaching another cup final?

A: “They should be extremely excited, as it’s a rare occasion. We experienced something similar in 2020, when we managed to eliminate Real Madrid at their ground. Although that was a single knockout match, we put in a tremendous effort to progress and ultimately clinch the trophy.”

Q: With Real Madrid up next, what approach do you think Sociedad will take to contain their star players?

A: “In the first leg, Andriy Lunin was the standout performer and kept Real Madrid in the game. The team needs to stick to their style of play, which they’ve demonstrated capability in time and time again. Even though this season hasn’t been their best, they’ve shown they can achieve significant results. Real Sociedad is fortunate to have an excellent coach, who not only possesses sound footballing ideas but also knows how to get the best out of the team.”

Q: I imagine every match against Madrid felt special for you, especially considering your history with the club…

A: “Absolutely, facing such massive clubs is always special, and playing against Real Madrid carries even more significance because of my past there.”

Zubimendi to Madrid?

Q: What memories stand out from your time at Real Madrid? There was certainly a lot of pressure…

A: “Playing for Madrid was truly an exhilarating experience as I was representing the biggest club in the world for two years. I learned a lot from incredible players like Xabi Alonso, (Luka) Modric, (Sami) Khedira, Isco, (Angel) Di Maria, and Casemiro.”

Q: One memorable moment was your presentation with all your mates in the VIP box at the Bernabeu… What was that experience like?

A: “When my signing was announced, my friends expressed a wish to attend the presentation. I was thrilled to share that moment with them. Initially, they were seated in the stands, but when the president found out, he invited them into the box. And we all know what happened next (laughs).”

Q: Based on your experience, do you believe Zubimendi is capable of taking command of the midfield at Real Madrid?

A: “Zubimendi has the potential to thrive in any setting. He possesses tremendous quality, astute footballing intelligence, and an incredible work ethic, which enables him to improve consistently.”

Q: What does it take to succeed at Real Madrid?

A: “To be honest, there are numerous elements to consider: talent, hard work, effort, character, and a dash of luck always comes in handy.”

Q: It appears that (Alvaro) Odriozola struggled to cope with the pressure of being at Madrid and hasn’t flourished as expected… What might have contributed to his struggles?

A: “Ultimately, every player is unique. Moving to the world’s best club is a monumental step and can be tough to manage due to the intense pressure. Alvaro is a fantastic player, as shown during his previous time at Real Sociedad, but he wasn’t able to showcase the same level at Real Madrid.”