Real Sociedad

The importance of the club’s Basque identity at home, how Kubo is helping growth in Japan and the effect of UEFA Champions League success

On this episode, we’re speaking with Inigo Diaz de Cerio, International Area Manager of Real Sociedad. Inigo joins us to talk about growing fandom at home and abroad and the impact the club’s run in the UEFA Champions League had on its brand.

Located in the Basque Country, Real Sociedad’s identity is rooted in the region. While the team now comprises of players from other regions and countries, the club still looks to bring local players through and foster a Basque identity in the team. With that in mind, we ask Inigo about the importance of the Basque identity with local fans and contrast that with the club’s growth in Japan after the signing of Takefusa Kubo in 2022.

Also, with the club making it to the UEFA Champions League Round of 16, after topping their group, we find out how that’s helped the club’s growth and affected their future ambitions in European competition.