The return of Takefusa Kubo to the training ground at Zubieta has brought joy to txuri-urdin fans, who eagerly awaited the chance to see one of their star players back in action. After spending over a month sidelined with a hamstring injury he sustained during a match against Barcelona, the Japanese international has taken a significant step: he’s resumed ball work.
Despite currently training individually under the supervision of the recovery team, seeing the number “14” dribble and strike the ball again is a refreshing boost for Pellegrino Matarazzo’s game plan.
Kubo’s rehabilitation journey hasn’t been easy, including a short stint in Japan to coordinate his treatment with the national team’s medical staff. However, his remarkable progress in late February has seen him transition from gym workouts to continuous running and finally re-engaging with the ball. This marks the beginning of the final stage of his recovery, with the primary objective of regaining the competitive sharpness and explosiveness that makes him a critical asset in Real Sociedad’s attacking lineup.
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The timing of his return aligns perfectly with a pivotal moment in the season: the second leg of the Copa del Rey semi-finals against Athletic Club. Following a valuable 0-1 victory at San Mamés, Real Sociedad is presented with a prime opportunity to secure a spot in the final at La Cartuja on Wednesday, March 4th, at the Reale Arena. Kubo has set a personal goal to participate in this Basque derby.
The coaching staff is adopting a stance of “cautious optimism.” Matarazzo, who recently referred to Kubo as a “soldier,” understands that rushing his return could lead to a serious setback during this crucial phase of the season. Thus, the upcoming group training sessions are vital; if Kubo can integrate into team practice without discomfort in the days ahead, the prospect of him being included in the squad for the cup derby transitions from a distant hope to a realistic possibility.
The countdown has begun in San Sebastián. The atmosphere around Anoeta is charged with anticipation, as Kubo’s return of talent for the Copa semi-final would serve as a tremendous boost. While Kubo continues to make strides on the Zubieta pitch, the rest of the team is preparing to defend their first-leg advantage, hoping that their key player can at least don the jersey and assist in securing a place in yet another historic final.
This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇪🇸 here.