Los Blancos sold Take to Sociedad - and now they're considering bringing him back

Real Sociedad's Japanese forward Take Kubo is in the final season of a possible return to Real Madrid as the club has reserved a buy-back option and a 50 per cent sell-on clause.

Real Madrid has conceded two goals in the current season, both scored by former Madrid players, Almeria's Sergio Arribas and Getafe's Borja Mayoral. On Sunday, two more former players will face them. One of them, Takefusa 'Take' Kubo, is expected to start. The other is Alvaro Odriozola, who returned home just two weeks ago. As it often goes in football, your former players are always there to hurt you.

The 22-year-old Japanese is happy and important at Real Sociedad. Kubo has found his perfect environment at the San Sebastian club and has matured on the field to the point where he draws attention for his contributions to the team. Kubo arrived at Real Madrid four years ago but has never had the opportunity to play an official match wearing the white shirt. During this time, he has played for four teams: Mallorca, Villarreal, Getafe, a return to Mallorca, and since 2022, Real Sociedad, the club he was transferred to. In the transfer, Real Madrid reserved a buy-back option. At Valdebebas, they have never wanted to part with Kubo permanently, but they are also clear that players cannot be tied to the club for life - without actually playing them.

The Real Madrid sporting management has always seen him as a player who could have a place in the first-team squad. The story that unfolded with Fran Garcia or Brahim Diaz, who were brought back to the club, could be repeated, although, in the case of the former Rayo player, there was a transfer involved. Garcia's situation was simpler because his loan period had ended.

Kubo's performances have improved as he has established himself as a regular starter. There were already voices calling for his return last season, but Real Sociedad decided to hold on to their starlet no matter what.

Now, there is talk again about Kubo's future, a possible move to the market, and Real Madrid's monitoring for the next season. The truth is that the forward is in the last season of a possible return and fulfilling his dream of playing for Real Madrid. However, it's not his primary concern. He wants to keep playing well and proving himself as a quality player, both for Real Sociedad and the Japanese national team. And hopefully, hurt Los Blancos tonight.

At Valdebebas, they observe, take notes, and analyze as they do with all the players under their wing. Still, the name Take Kubo is highlighted in red, though it's still too early for a decision. He was once seen as part of the search for young talent but was never allowed to prove himself. There is still time.

LA LIGA - MATCHDAY 5

Friday

Rayo Vallecano - Alaves 2-0 (1-0)

/Palazon 43 pen, De Frutos 82/

Saturday

Ath. Bilbao - Cadiz 3-0 (0-0)

/Guruzeta 66, Villalibre 68, I. Williams 90/

Valencia - Atl. Madrid 3-0 (2-0)

/Duro 5, 34, Guerra 54/

Celta - Mallorca 0-1 (0-0)

/Muriqi 85/

Barcelona - Betis 5-0 (2-0)

/Felix 25, Lewandowski 32, Torres 62, Raphinha 66, Cancelo 81/

Sunday

Getafe - Osasuna (in progress)

17.15: (1.50) Villareal (4.30) Almeria (6.50)

19.30: (1.60) Sevilla (3.90) Las Palmas (7.00)

22.00: (1.65) Real Madrid (3.70) Sociedad (5.60)

Monday

22.00: (2.60) Granada (3.35) Girona (2.90)

***odds are subject to change