Oyarzabal refused to speak about transfer to Barcelona
Spain national team and Real Sociedad captain Mikel Oyarzabal has commented on the transfer market rumors and the situation surrounding young star Lamine Yamal in the national team. This was reported by Zamin.uz.
The experienced forward, who has recently been the center of interest for Barcelona, stated that he is currently focusing all his attention on participating in the World Cup. This is reported by Goal.com.
Mikel Oyarzabal had a high-level 2025-2026 season, recording 18 goals and 4 assists in 40 matches across all competitions. Such efficiency did not go unnoticed by the scouts of the Catalan club.
However, in an interview with Mundo Deportivo, the footballer emphasized that he is approaching the transfer rumors calmly. "If people are talking about me, it means I am doing my job correctly.
But I don't spend extra time on this and have focused all my attention on helping the national team," says Oyarzabal. A symbol of loyalty and future plans Oyarzabal is considered a true club legend, having played 437 games for Real Sociedad, scoring 133 goals and winning the Spanish Cup twice.
His current contract has two years remaining, and the player is in no rush to negotiate a new deal. He openly stated that he considers the city of San Sebastian his home and "safe harbor."
"I am calm. Real Sociedad is the club that gave me the opportunity to reach my current level.
I have a contract and we still have a long way to go. So far, we haven't discussed the extension with the management, but this doesn't worry me," the forward added.
According to Goal.com, the footballer will be occupied only with the interests of the national team until the transfer window closes. The responsibility of protecting Lamine Yamal Oyarzabal is more concerned about the psychological state of his 18-year-old teammate Lamine Yamal than his own future.
The Barcelona academy graduate has already become one of the key figures of the Spanish national team. He has managed to make 27 appearances for the national team, recording 7 goals and 12 assists.
The experienced captain believes that the pressure on the young talent's shoulders needs to be reduced. "I think many people don't fully realize that he has only just turned 18.
It is very difficult for a boy of his age to play at such a level and be the center of so much interest. It is our responsibility to protect him, support him, and ensure stability.
If a healthy environment is not created around him, it is not unusual to lose balance at such an age," says Mikel Oyarzabal. In the Spain national team camp, the presence of experienced players like Oyarzabal serves as an important support for young stars like Lamine Yamal.
This is expected to be one of the decisive factors for the team's success in the World Cup.
