Real Sociedad has confirmed that head coach Imanol Alguacil will step down from his role at the end of the 2024-25 season, marking the end of a significant era for the Basque club. The announcement, made via the club’s official channels, follows weeks of speculation about the 53-year-old’s future amid a challenging campaign.
Alguacil, a Real Sociedad icon both as a player and coach, has been at the helm since December 2018, guiding the club through a transformative period. Under his leadership, La Real won the 2020 Copa del Rey, their first major trophy in over three decades, and secured consistent top-six finishes in La Liga, alongside regular European qualification. His tenure saw the emergence of talents like Martin Zubimendi and Mikel Oyarzabal, cementing his reputation as a coach adept at nurturing homegrown players.
However, the 2024-25 season has been turbulent. Real Sociedad currently languish in ninth place in La Liga, with disappointing exits from the Europa League against Manchester United and the Copa del Rey against Real Madrid. Fans and pundits have voiced frustrations over the team’s lackluster performances, with some calling for a change to reinvigorate the squad.
According to reports from Radio MARCA, Alguacil informed the squad of his decision on the morning of April 24, 2025, signaling a mutual understanding with the club’s hierarchy. Despite earlier indications of strong institutional support and potential contract extensions, the mounting pressure and recent results appear to have influenced his choice. A report from Fichajes.net on April 18 suggested the club was committed to continuity, but Alguacil’s departure now points to a shift in direction.
In a statement, Real Sociedad praised Alguacil’s contributions: “Imanol Alguacil has informed the Club that he will not continue as head coach next season. We thank him for his dedication, passion, and remarkable achievements, which have left an indelible mark on our history.”
Alguacil himself has not publicly commented on his next move, but his deep connection to the club suggests an emotional farewell. “Imanol has always wanted to stay at this club,” he said in a press conference earlier this season, though he deferred contract talks until later in the campaign.
The club now faces the task of finding a successor to maintain its competitive edge. Names like Rayo Vallecano’s Inigo Perez, previously linked with the role, may resurface as contenders.