Overview

• John Benjamin Toshack received Real Sociedad’s gold-and-diamonds insignia before the match at Anoeta, recognizing his 386 games as coach and the 1987 Copa del Rey title.
• Toshack published a letter to supporters expressing gratitude and saying stepping out at Anoeta would make a dream come true.
• Real Madrid coach Xabi Alonso returns to the stadium where he played from 2000 to 2004 and previously managed Sanse, now leading Madrid in his first season in charge.
• Madrid share the LaLiga lead on nine points after three rounds, while Real Sociedad have two draws and a defeat after a summer that saw Mikel Zubimendi depart for Arsenal and new signings arrive.
• Madrid are without Antonio Rüdiger for an estimated two to three months due to a muscular injury; kick-off is at 16:15 with Jesús Gil Manzano officiating and Movistar LaLiga broadcasting.