Real Madrid’s new signing finally set for first start in Real Sociedad clash – report

Real Madrid are expected to give Marc Cucurella his first start at the Santiago Bernabeu on Wednesday, with the summer signing in line to be the only alteration to Jose Mourinho’s starting XI against Real Sociedad.

According to AS, Mourinho is not planning a major overhaul for Real Madrid’s first home match of the 2026/27 La Liga season. 

Instead, the Portuguese coach is expected to keep faith with a side close to his strongest available lineup, with Cucurella’s introduction at left-back standing out as the key change.

The match could therefore offer the Bernabeu faithful their first proper look at one of the club’s notable summer arrivals from the opening whistle.

Cucurella has already had his first taste of action in a Real Madrid shirt, coming off the bench against Espanyol, but Wednesday’s clash against Real Sociedad is expected to mark his first start.

Cucurella is set to start against Real Sociedad. (Photo by Christof Koepsel/Getty Images)

The Spaniard was signed before the World Cup and now looks ready to take a more prominent role in Mourinho’s plans. 

AS reports that the left-back is expected to be introduced into an otherwise largely unchanged team.

With another La Liga fixture against Malaga coming up next Sunday, Mourinho may opt to make further adjustments later in the week. 

For the visit of Real Sociedad, though, the priority appears to be continuity rather than rotation.

Cucurella’s first start will come on a special occasion for the player following his success with the Spanish national team at the World Cup.

Mourinho will not make many changes to his starting XI vs Sociedad. (Photo by Christof Koepsel/Getty Images)

As reported before, Real Madrid are planning to pay tribute to the left-back at the Santiago Bernabeu, recognising his role in Spain’s triumph. 

Cucurella was an important figure throughout the tournament and started every match as the national team lifted the trophy.

The occasion will also have significance for Real Sociedad captain Mikel Oyarzabal, who will return to Madrid as a World Cup champion and is also expected to receive recognition.

For Cucurella, though, the evening could bring a different kind of milestone. 

The defender will have the opportunity to combine a celebration of his international success with his first start for one of the biggest clubs in world football.