Oyarzabal: "Of course you can say no to Barcelona" — captain of
According to Soccernews.
Context
Mikel Oyarzabal, captain of Real Sociedad, has been a reference in La Liga, standing out for his ability to score goals and provide assists. With 133 goals in 437 games, his impact on the club is undeniable, especially after a season in which he achieved his best record in the league. Oyarzabal also stood out at the 2026 World Cup, which raised his profile and attracted the attention of clubs like Barcelona.
Why this matters
Mikel Oyarzabal's statement about the possibility of refusing Barcelona highlights his loyalty to Real Sociedad and the satisfaction he feels in San Sebastián. These types of statements are crucial for team morale and the club's image in La Liga, especially at a time when players are often attracted to big clubs. Oyarzabal, with his impressive performance, is a central figure in Real Sociedad's strategy and his stay could influence the team's future.
Main conclusions
- Oyarzabal: "Of course you can say no to Barcelona" — captain.
- Mikel Oyarzabal, captain of Real Sociedad, reacted to the rumors linking him to Barcelona, ensuring that it is possible to refuse the Catalan invitation and highlighting his happiness in San Sebastián.
- Mikel Oyarzabal remains central to Real Sociedad's plans.
Mikel Oyarzabal has once again added water to the boil over the possibility of heading to Barcelona. In an interview with the program El Chiringuito, the Real Sociedad captain was adamant when asked about a possible invitation from the Blaugrana: "Can you say no to Barcelona? Yes, of course yes. Others have already done so."
The 29-year-old forward is going through one of the best moments of his career and has long been a reference for Real Sociedad. At the service of the San Sebastián club he played 437 official games, with 133 goals and 60 assists, numbers that help explain the status he achieved in Anoeta. In 2025/26, he scored his best record ever in LaLiga, with 15 goals, and also lifted the Copa del Rey, the second of his career with the txuri-urdin shirt.
Oyarzabal also shone for Spain at the 2026 World Cup, scoring four goals and one assist in five matches, a performance that reinforced the interest of major European clubs. Among them, Barcelona, who are looking for a striker in this summer market. Manchester City's Julián Álvarez has also been linked to the Catalans, while Hansi Flick is watching the market for attacking solutions.
Despite the noise surrounding his future, the Real Sociedad captain assures that he feels fully fulfilled in San Sebastián. "I'm incredibly happy. I consider Real Sociedad my home. It's where I can live the life I want, with the people closest to me. I've always said that I'm exactly where I want to be", he stressed, before admitting that "in football everything can change very quickly", leaving the door ajar to what the market can bring.
The new LaLiga season already has a date set for the title candidates. Real Sociedad begins the 2026/27 campaign at Real Madrid's ground, a demanding start for the Basque team. Barcelona, defending champions, begin their trophy defense against Athletic Club, at Camp Nou, on August 16, in a regional classic that promises to heat up the opening day.
For now, tranquility reigns in San Sebastián: Oyarzabal remains focused on Real Sociedad and the club's goals. Refusing Barcelona is not a taboo for the Spanish international — it is, in his words, a real possibility when he feels “at home” and in full harmony with the La Real project.
What happens next
With Oyarzabal reaffirming his happiness at Real Sociedad, speculation about a transfer to Barcelona may decrease, at least in the short term. However, the Catalans' interest in a striker suggests that the situation could evolve, especially if the player continues to shine in La Liga and international competitions. Oyarzabal's continuity in San Sebastián could also inspire other players to stay at clubs where they feel valued.
Frequently asked questions
What did Mikel Oyarzabal say about the possibility of going to Barcelona?
Mikel Oyarzabal stated that it is possible to say no to Barcelona, mentioning that other players have already done so.
Who confirmed Oyarzabal's happiness at Real Sociedad?
Mikel Oyarzabal confirmed his happiness in San Sebastián, stating that he considers Real Sociedad his home.
Why is Oyarzabal being linked to Barcelona now?
Oyarzabal is being linked to Barcelona due to his outstanding performance in the 2025/26 season and the club's interest in strengthening the attack.
What changes did Oyarzabal mention about his
future?
Oyarzabal admitted that in football everything can change quickly, leaving the door ajar to what the market might bring.
How many games and goals does Oyarzabal have for Real Sociedad?
Oyarzabal has played 437 official games and scored 133 goals for Real Sociedad.