Sports

Jon Martín Says Real Sociedad Is His Home Despite Interest From Top Clubs

By Adam Bate

Jon Martín, the 20‑year‑old centre‑back for Real Sociedad, says he will stay at the club for now, even though he has been linked with Real Madrid, Barcelona and several Premier League clubs. He told Adam Bate that he has been with Real Sociedad since he was 12 and that the sense of belonging keeps him there. "I feel this is my home," he said. He added that the interest in him is a natural result of his performances.

The ball‑playing defender has made his debut for Spain in the summer and could become a long‑term partner for Pau Cubarsi in the national team’s defence. He is described as physically imposing for his age and has strong defensive metrics in La Liga.

Martín was a key player when Real Sociedad won the Copa del Rey in April under coach Pellegrino Matarazzo. He praised Matarazzo’s positive style and close relationship with the players, saying he is "very happy working with this coach" and that the coach is "very close to us" and trustworthy.

He looks forward to the upcoming Basque derby against Athletic Club in Bilbao, noting that home‑grown players feel a special connection to such matches. Five of his first 27 starts for Real Sociedad came in this fixture. He invites fans to attend, describing the atmosphere as fantastic and the rivalry as passionate.

Martín’s father, a former Real Sociedad player whose career was cut short by injury, is a pillar of support. He talks to his father before matches for advice and calmness.

With Real Sociedad set to compete in the Spanish Super Cup this winter and the Europa League in May, Martín says the club provides everything he needs to perform at a top level. He remains focused on the derby and on delivering his best performance for the team.