Javi Rodríguez has played 40 of 46 Liga matches under Claudio Giráldez

Javi Rodríguez has played 40 of the 46 Liga matches under Claudio Giráldez. In the context of the Liga, Real Sociedad have played only six matches against Athletic.

Claudio Giráldez explained that the player had no physical problem, but had made an effort to be available for the first Liga matches despite an almost non-existent pre-season and back discomfort. He said he had chosen to pause briefly so the player could build up training sessions without pain and regain his best level. He also said he had complete confidence in him.