Mikel Oyarzabal has spoken candidly about the ongoing speculation regarding his future, as reports continue to link him with a move to Barcelona. The Real Sociedad captain remains a key figure for the Spain national team, drawing on his experience to stay composed amid transfer talk and the growing global attention surrounding teenage prodigy Lamine Yamal.

Staying focused amid Barcelona speculation

Despite persistent rumours connecting him to Barcelona, Oyarzabal insists he remains fully concentrated on Spain’s World Cup campaign. The 29-year-old forward, who has long been the emblem of Real Sociedad, is coming off an impressive 2025-2026 season, registering 18 goals and four assists in 40 appearances across all competitions.

In a conversation with Mundo Deportivo, Oyarzabal commented on the speculation: “If people are talking about me, it means they believe I’m doing things right, but I don’t pay much attention to that or waste time on those matters. At the moment, my focus is here, on this World Cup, on doing everything I can to help the team in the coming matches, whether I’m playing or not. My aim is to contribute and ensure the group performs well, because that’s what truly matters.”

Loyalty to Real Sociedad

Questions about a potential departure inevitably return to Oyarzabal’s reputation as a ‘one-club man’ at Real Sociedad, where he has made 437 appearances, scored 133 goals, and lifted two Copa del Rey trophies. With two years remaining on his current deal, the forward is in no hurry to initiate transfer discussions while representing his country.

“I’m relaxed. I’ve said it countless times – Real Sociedad and San Sebastián are my home. It’s my safe place, where I grew up, and Real Sociedad is the club that gave me the chance to reach this stage,” he explained. “So, in that sense, I’m calm, not overthinking things. We haven’t spoken about a renewal yet. I still have two years left on my contract, and there’s plenty of time ahead.”

Supporting Lamine Yamal

While Oyarzabal remains composed about his own situation, he has also expressed a strong sense of responsibility toward his 18-year-old teammate Lamine Yamal, who has quickly become one of Spain’s central attacking figures. Despite his tender age, Yamal has already earned 27 caps, scored seven goals, and provided 12 assists, playing a decisive role in Spain’s Euro 2024 triumph. Oyarzabal emphasised that senior players have a duty to protect and guide the young Barcelona star.

“I think he probably doesn’t fully realise it himself, and I don’t think people outside the team truly understand what it means for him to be just 18,” Oyarzabal said. “I can’t even imagine what it was like for him at the last European Championship when he was 16 — for someone that age to achieve what he’s achieved is extraordinary. It’s our job, all of us, to look after him, make sure he feels comfortable and supported. At that age, if you lack balance and composure, things can easily become unstable. It’s everyone’s responsibility — his, but also ours — to help him stay on the right path.”

Yamal’s influence on the field

Beyond offering guidance off the pitch, Oyarzabal was quick to commend Yamal’s significant influence on Spain’s attack. Their understanding was on full display during the recent win over Saudi Arabia, where Oyarzabal assisted Yamal’s goal. The Real Sociedad forward noted that the youngster’s dynamic style and creativity open up space for others in the attacking third.

“Playing alongside him changes everything. He causes chaos for opponents simply through his presence and what he’s capable of doing,” Oyarzabal concluded. “We need to make the most of that, understand the situations he creates, and use them to our advantage, both collectively and individually.”