Preview, form, head-to-head, team news and broadcast details for Sunday’s LaLiga clash at the Reale Arena
Real Sociedad host FC Barcelona in a key LaLiga fixture on Sunday, January 18, 2026, with kick-off at 21:00 CET at the Reale Arena. Barcelona arrive as league leaders and in strong form, while La Real seek to build consistency under head coach Pellegrino Matarazzo. The match has major implications for both clubs as the season reaches a critical stage.
Barcelona, defending Spanish champions, continue to lead the title race after an excellent start to 2026. The Catalans remain one of the most consistent sides in Europe’s top leagues, while Real Sociedad aim to take another step towards European qualification and tighten up a defence that has struggled at times.
How the teams go into the game: form
Real Sociedad’s recent form has been a mix of results as they look to stabilise under Matarazzo. Over their last five matches in all competitions, Sociedad have earned two wins, one draw and two defeats. They beat Getafe 2-1 in their most recent LaLiga outing and also eliminated Osasuna on penalties in the Copa del Rey, giving them momentum heading into this clash. Sociedad’s home form, however, remains patchy – they have collected only 11 points from nine league matches at the Reale Arena this season, highlighting defensive vulnerabilities that Barcelona will look to exploit.
By contrast, Barcelona are in dynamic form under manager Hansi Flick. The Blaugrana have won 11 consecutive matches in all competitions, including their recent 2-0 Copa del Rey win over Racing Santander and a thrilling Supercopa title victory over Real Madrid. In LaLiga alone, Barcelona have won their last nine league games, showcasing attacking firepower and defensive organisation as they sit atop the standings. Their recent run of wins has affirmed their title credentials and confidence is high within the squad.
Real Sociedad vs FC Barcelona: head-to-head
Barcelona hold a dominant record in this fixture. Across the last five competitive meetings, Barça have come out on top in three matches, while Sociedad have managed one victory and there has been one draw. Barcelona have scored nine goals in those five fixtures, with Real Sociedad scoring five in return. Their most recent encounter saw Barcelona win 2-1 in September 2025, with goals from Jules Koundé and Robert Lewandowski securing the points. Sociedad’s last home win over Barcelona came in November 2024, when they triumphed 1-0 at the Reale Arena, proving that the Basque side can still spring surprises despite historical trends.
Real Sociedad vs FC Barcelona: team news
Real Sociedad will be relying on Mikel Oyarzabal to provide the goals, with the experienced forward still at the top of his game. At the other end, goalkeeper Álex Remiro will have his work cut out to keep the Barcelona attack at bay. La Real have injury concerns over Yangel Herrera and Orri Oskarsson, with Pellegrino Matarazzo looking to make the most of his options to counter Barcelona’s high-tempo play.
Barcelona will be without Gavi due to knee surgery and Andreas Christensen remains sidelined long-term. Frenkie de Jong is available after serving a suspension in the Copa del Rey, boosting midfield options. With Raphinha left out as a precaution, it could open the door for Marcus Rashford to start, with Lamine Yamal on the right, and one of Ferran Torres or Robert Lewandowski leading the line.
Real Sociedad vs FC Barcelona: when and where to watch in US & UK
In the United Kingdom, the match will be broadcast live on Premier Sports and LaLigaTV, with coverage beginning ahead of the 20:00 GMT kick-off. Fans can stream action via the Viaplay Sports app.
In the United States, viewers can watch the game live on ESPN+, with build-up starting before the 15:00 ET kick-off. Check local listings for exact channels and regional coverage.
With Barcelona pushing for another LaLiga title and Real Sociedad eager to make their mark, Sunday’s encounter is set to be a compelling battle at the Reale Arena.