Imanol Alguacil to Step Down as Real Sociedad Head Coach at End of Season

Imanol Alguacil has officially announced that he will step down as head coach of Real Sociedad at the end of the 2024–2025 season.

Although the club offered him a two-year contract extension, he chose to decline, bringing an end to a significant era at the club.

Alguacil, who took charge in April 2018, has enjoyed a highly successful tenure. He managed the team in over 325 matches, recorded 157 wins, and secured five consecutive qualifications for European competitions. One of the standout moments of his reign was winning the 2020 Copa del Rey final against Athletic Club, which marked the club’s first major trophy in 34 years.

Renowned for his strong connection to the club's values, Alguacil has been instrumental in nurturing talent from the Zubieta academy, helping develop key players like Mikel Oyarzabal and Martín Zubimendi. His decision to leave comes amid a season of mixed results, including a recent defeat to Deportivo Alavés. Still, he remains committed to ending on a high by securing a sixth straight European qualification for the club.

Real Sociedad is now evaluating potential successors. Among the names being considered are Girona’s Míchel Sánchez, current Sanse (Real Sociedad B) coach Sergio Francisco, and former player Xabi Alonso, though Alonso is also a strong candidate for the Real Madrid job.

Alguacil's final home game at the Reale Arena is expected to be against Girona in the penultimate round of the league season, offering supporters the chance to pay tribute to one of the club’s most impactful figures.