Biography
Who is Mikel Oyarzabal?
Early life and background
Mikel Oyarzabal was born in Eibar, Spain, on April 21, 1997. He grew up in the region and later studied for a business degree at the University of Deusto while starting his early professional football career.
He joined the youth setup at Real Sociedad in 2011 when he was fourteen years old. He quickly progressed through the youth ranks to make his senior debut with the club reserves in November 2014 during a match against Amorebieta in the Segunda Division B.
Club career highlights
Mikel Oyarzabal made his first team and La Liga debut for Real Sociedad in October 2015 by replacing Carlos Vela in a victory against Levante. He scored his first goal for the senior team in February 2016 during a match against Espanyol.
Over the following seasons, he became a core player for the club and eventually took over as team captain in June 2023 after the departure of Asier Illarramendi. He played a crucial role in winning the Copa del Rey titles for the club, including scoring in the delayed 2020 final against Athletic Bilbao and helping secure the 2025-26 trophy.
He reached a major milestone on December 1, 2024, by scoring his 100th goal for Real Sociedad through a penalty in a match against Real Betis. By August 2025, he recorded his 400th appearance for the Basque club.
International success with Spain
Mikel Oyarzabal represented Spain at youth levels including under-18, under-19, and under-21 teams. He made his full senior debut for the Spain national team in May 2016 during a friendly match against Bosnia and Herzegovina.
He helped the national side achieve significant tournament success, including winning the UEFA Euro 2024 tournament where he scored the decisive winning goal in the final against England. He also represented Spain at the Tokyo Olympic Games, winning a silver medal in 2021, and featured in the squad for the 2026 World Cup.
Personal life
Mikel Oyarzabal has maintained a relationship with Ainhoa Larrauri since 2015. The couple welcomed their son into the family in December 2023.
Standing at a height of 181 cm, he has balanced his demanding professional athletic schedule with his personal life and previous academic pursuits at the University of Deusto.
Birthday and age
Mikel Oyarzabal was born on April 21, 1997, which makes Mikel 29 years old today. That birthday falls under the Taurus sign. Mikel shares the date with 49 other famous people.
Explore more
