Imanol Alguacil to Depart Real Sociedad After Six and a Half Glorious Years at the End of the Season

A transformative chapter in Real Sociedad’s recent history is nearing its conclusion. Imanol Alguacil, the architect of the club’s most consistent period of success since the 1980s, will step down as head coach at the close of the current season. His decision, confirmed by the club on Thursday, signals a new phase of transition for the Basque outfit as both the manager and Sporting Director prepare to exit.

Imanol’s Impactful Journey in San Sebastián

Since taking over in December 2018, Imanol has left an indelible mark on the club he once served as a player and a youth team coach. Rising from managing the B team to leading the senior side, he has reshaped the footballing identity of La Real, balancing attacking flair with tactical discipline.

Over 325 competitive fixtures, the 53-year-old has guided Real Sociedad to 152 victories, 81 draws, and 92 defeats, with the team finding the net 458 times and conceding 341 goals. His tenure averages an impressive 1.65 points per match—an indicator of the steady hands with which he steered the club into European relevance.

Defining Highlights of His Reign

Under Imanol’s guidance, Real Sociedad have punched above their weight season after season, earning European qualification in every full campaign he managed. The highlight came in 2021 when the Txuri-Urdin lifted the Copa del Rey, beating Athletic Club in a historic Basque derby final.

Last year’s qualification for the UEFA Champions League marked another high, ending a decade-long absence from Europe’s premier competition. Although the journey ended in the knockout stages against eventual semi-finalists Paris Saint-Germain, the campaign reaffirmed Real Sociedad’s status among Europe’s elite.

A Tough Call: Why He’s Leaving

Imanol’s future had been shrouded in speculation throughout the season. Despite persistent inquiries, he remained tight-lipped until the club made the announcement official. “Imanol has decided to leave Real Sociedad head coach job at the end of the current season,” read the statement, confirming the news that fans had been bracing for.

With his contract set to expire this summer, Alguacil took the initiative to inform the board of his decision, paving the way for a graceful farewell.

Current Season Struggles and a Race for Europe

Despite maintaining their reputation as a difficult team to beat, Real Sociedad have stumbled in their chase for European qualification this season. Presently in ninth position in La Liga, they face an uphill battle to finish eighth and secure a UEFA Conference League spot.

With five matches still to play, the margin for error is razor-thin. Sitting two points behind RCD Mallorca and four adrift of Celta Vigo, the closing stretch will be pivotal in determining if Imanol’s final act includes one last continental adventure.

A Summer of Change Beckons

Imanol’s departure isn’t the only major shift on the horizon. Sporting Director Roberto Olabe is also set to leave, further accentuating the club’s period of transformation. Head Scout Erik Bretos will step into Olabe’s role, but the vacancy in the dugout remains unfilled.

As of now, there is no confirmed successor to Alguacil, and fans are left pondering who will inherit a squad accustomed to tactical cohesion and high expectations.

Though questions loom over what comes next, one thing remains certain—Imanol Alguacil’s legacy is secure. His tenure brought silverware, European prestige, and a renewed sense of identity to Real Sociedad. More than just results, he inspired belief and built a team that matched the ambition of its loyal supporters.

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