Mikel Oyarzabal Aims to Put LaLiga in US Soccer Spotlight
Real Sociedad Prepares for San Francisco Clash
In a bid to elevate LaLiga’s presence in the United States, Mikel Oyarzabal is following the footsteps of Lionel Messi’s impact on MLS. This weekend, Oyarzabal’s Real Sociedad is set to take the field against Real Betis in San Francisco’s Oracle Park – home to the San Francisco Giants.
Oyarzabal, a winger with 26 caps for the Spanish national team, is enthusiastic about presenting the league in which he has spent his entire career. He emphasized, “La Liga is growing in the United States, and we’re doing great growth. We’re a good example for football.” He believes the presence of four Spanish teams playing in the United States is a positive development for American fans.
The exciting event will feature Real Sociedad against Real Betis, followed by a match between Atletico Madrid and Sevilla on the same field.
Real Sociedad’s summer tour includes their recent match against Atletico Madrid in Monterrey’s Estadio BBVA, which ended in a 0-0 draw. With the upcoming La Liga season on the horizon and a kick-off match against Girona next weekend, the US tour provides Real Sociedad with an opportunity to enhance their fitness levels and connect with new fans.
Oyarzabal expressed his anticipation about playing matches outside Europe, stating, “It’s gonna be a really nice experience to have the opportunity to go and play Real Sociedad matches outside Europe.” He believes this is a chance for people in different places to become acquainted with the team.
While American audiences may not be entirely familiar with Sociedad, they are undoubtedly engaged in soccer as a whole. The country has shown strong support for both men’s and women’s national teams. Lionel Messi’s captivating presence with Inter Miami has also grabbed attention, and the upcoming 2026 World Cup, hosted in the US, further intensifies the soccer fever.
Oyarzabal’s prediction in the past seems to be coming true as more players are now venturing to play in the United States. As Sociedad faces Betis at 7pm ET (4pm local time), followed by the Atletico Madrid and Sevilla match at 10pm, Oyarzabal himself becomes part of this evolving soccer culture on the American stage.
