Harambee Stars forward faces major dilemma with Real Sociedad

Harambee Stars forward Job Ochieng is facing a defining moment in his career at Real Sociedad after changes in player eligibility regulations left his future at the club uncertain.

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According to Spanish outlet Mundo Deportivo, the 23-year-old winger is no longer classified as an Under-23 player, a development that significantly alters his position within Real Sociedad's renowned Zubieta academy system.

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Ochieng joined Real Sociedad's youth ranks back in July 2023 and has steadily progressed through the club's development structure.

Over the past seasons, he has featured prominently for both the club's reserve side, Real Sociedad B (Sanse), and trained regularly with the senior team, earning recognition as one of the most promising talents in the academy setup.

However, Spanish football regulations previously allowed Under-23 players to move freely between the reserve team and the first team.

Having now surpassed that age threshold, Ochieng can no longer alternate between the two squads, forcing the club into a crucial decision regarding his future.

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The Kenyan attacker enjoyed an impressive campaign with Sanse, establishing himself as one of the team's standout performers.

His consistent displays convinced many observers that he has outgrown the developmental level of the reserve side and is ready for a greater challenge.

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As a result, Real Sociedad must now decide whether to promote him permanently to the first team or send him out on loan to gain valuable experience at a higher competitive level.

Keeping him with the reserve team appears the least favourable option, as regulations would prevent him from being available to both squads.

Mundo Deportivo further reports that Ochieng will begin pre-season under the close observation of the coaching staff before a final decision is made later this summer.

The situation is not unique to Ochieng. Midfielder Mikel Rodríguez and left-back Jon Balda also face similar circumstances, with all three players now awaiting clarity on their futures as Real Sociedad seeks to balance player development with regulatory requirements.

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For Ochieng, the coming weeks could prove decisive in determining the next chapter of his European football journey.