Real Sociedad and Celta confirmed their starting lineups before kickoff at Anoeta on the fourth round of LaLiga EA Sports, with Antañón included in Celta's XI and making his debut. The selection gave the match an immediate point of interest, especially with both sides leaning on their main attacking references, Oyarzabal and Aspas.
Celta arrived with a confirmed absence for Borja Iglesias and an injury loss in Febas, while Real Sociedad were without Odriozola and Marín. Matarazzo was also suspended, adding another layer to the visitors' matchday picture.
What the pre-match context said
The build-up had already pointed to a competitive evening. Matarazzo spoke before the match about Héctor Fort and Sarr, explaining that Celta had done good work with their arrivals and noting that the team would need to adapt quickly because of the number of games coming in a short span. He also highlighted the differences between Héctor and Aramburu, describing Héctor as a more vertical and skilful profile.
Giráldez, meanwhile, stressed the size of the challenge at Anoeta. He described Real Sociedad as a strong side with a good coach and a club that has built on work done by Imanol and Sergio. He also recalled last season's defeat at the same ground, saying Celta had been comfortable in the first half before struggling later, and pointed to the similarity between Real Sociedad and Athletic in terms of rhythm, pressure and transition play.
Why Antañón mattered
Antañón's inclusion in the starting XI was the clearest headline from Celta's team news. With 11 players in each side's lineup and a debut on the line, the teenager's selection underlined Giráldez's homegrown approach at a difficult away venue. It also added another fresh element to a match that already carried the usual pressure of a league visit to Anoeta.
For Real Sociedad, the confirmed lineup reflected a side trying to manage absences while still relying on familiar leaders. For Celta, the decision to hand Antañón his first start offered a sign of trust and a look at how the club wants to blend its established options with younger players in LaLiga EA Sports.
