Mamadou Sarr earns Matarazzo's praise on Sociedad debut

Mamadou Sarr has made an encouraging start to life at Real Sociedad, with coach Pellegrino Matarazzo praising the Senegalese defender after his debut helped the Basque side beat Elche 3-2. Sarr started the match after remaining on the bench since joining on loan from Chelsea this summer.

Matarazzo said Sarr showed physical strength, defended effectively and was comfortable in possession. The coach also acknowledged that the defender needed time to settle after a long period without playing and made a few minor errors. Sarr had indicated that he would eventually need to leave the field, while fatigue also affected Gonçalo Guedes, leading to a double change.

The win gives Sociedad an important result after a difficult start. The club went into the fourth round in 20th place with no points from two matches, while Elche were 18th on one point after three games. Sociedad's previous five matches had brought wins over Aston Villa and Wolves, a draw with Racing Santander, a defeat by Pau FC and a draw against Espanyol.

For Sarr, the appearance provides an early opportunity to establish himself in the side. Matarazzo's assessment suggests the defender has already made a positive impression despite the lack of recent competitive minutes.