Real Sociedad vs Celta prediction, head-to-head and probable lineups - 25 January 2026
One of the fixtures of La Liga's 21st round will take place this Sunday at the Reale Arena in San Sebastián, where the local side, Real Sociedad, will host Celta Vigo. I'm backing an outcome in this clash with strong winning potential, considering the hosts' progress under their new manager and the visitors' fatigue after their European campaign.
Match preview
With the arrival of Pellegrino Matarazzo, Sociedad have started to play a more organized and energetic brand of football, going unbeaten in all four matches under the new manager. Their victory over Barcelona in the last round was particularly impressive, even if the match was not without controversy. The team has improved its pressing structure and restored the fans’ sense of confidence in their performances on the pitch.
However, the squad situation is not ideal for the hosts: Soler is suspended and both Kubo and Zakharyan are doubtful. Still, Sociedad will have the advantage of freshness, as they have not been distracted by European competitions, unlike Celta, and have been methodically preparing for this home encounter. That could prove decisive in a matchup where the squads are otherwise evenly matched.
Celta, meanwhile, are on a fine run, having won four matches in a row, including a crucial Europa League victory over Lille. Under Claudio Giráldez, Celta stick rigidly to a disciplined 3-4-3 setup, focusing on controlling the center of the pitch and quick vertical transitions. Defensively, they remain one of the most reliable teams in the league, conceding even fewer goals than Barcelona.
Good news for the traveling fans— all key players are available, including Moriba, who returns from suspension. However, a packed schedule and the long journey to San Sebastián could take a toll on the players' fitness. Additionally, Celta have often looked less assured on the road than they do at home.
Probable lineups
- Real Sociedad: Alex, Zubeldia, Martin, Gomez, Aramburu, Turrientes, Sučić, Guedes, Barrenetxea Muguruza, Mendez, Oyarzabal
- Celta: Andrei Radu, Starfelt, Rodriguez, Alonso, Rueda, Moriba, Sotelo, Mingueza, Alvarez, Zaragoza, Iglesias
Match facts and head-to-head
- Six of the last seven matches between these sides have featured fewer than three goals.
- In three of their last five encounters, only one team managed to score.
- Celta have won four matches in a row, but three of those victories came at home.
Prediction
Celta’s form is impressive, but the congested schedule and their recent Europa League battle with Lille could come back to haunt them. Real Sociedad are riding high on emotion after their win over Barcelona and are playing at home, where they are traditionally strong. The hosts’ selection issues complicate matters, yet their freshness and the organized football under Matarazzo could tip the scales in their favor.
