Real Sociedad Sack Sergio Francisco with Ansotegi Taking Temporary Charge
La Real have pulled the trigger on Sergio Francisco after poor results, with Sanse boss Jon Ansotegi stepping up until Christmas alongside Imanol Agirretxe.
The axe has finally fallen in San Sebastián as Real Sociedad confirm what’s been on the cards since yesterday - Sergio Francisco has been given his marching orders after a dismal run of form.
Temporary Solution
The Txuri-urdin have moved quickly to install Jon Ansotegi as caretaker manager until the Christmas break. The Sanse (B team) boss will take charge immediately, with former La Real striker Imanol Agirretxe serving as his assistant during this interim period.
Ansotegi, who only yesterday was busy guiding the B team to an impressive 3-0 away victory at Deportivo La Coruña’s Riazor stadium, has had to switch gears rapidly. His first training session with the senior squad is scheduled for this afternoon at 16:30 behind closed doors, having been pushed back from the original 11:00 slot to accommodate the transition.
Two Matches to Steady the Ship
The temporary coaching duo will oversee just two fixtures before the Christmas break:
- Home against Eldense
- Away trip to Levante
These matches could prove crucial in stopping the rot that’s set in at the Reale Arena in recent weeks.
Club Statement
In their official announcement, Real Sociedad acknowledged Francisco’s significant contribution to the club over more than eleven years, particularly highlighting his role in youth development and securing promotions with both the C team and Sanse.
The statement confirmed that assistant coach Iosu Rivas has also departed alongside Francisco, with the club expressing gratitude for their service and wishing them well for the future.
What Next?
The timing suggests La Real’s board will use the Christmas period to identify a permanent successor, with pressure mounting to find the right candidate to get the most from a talented but underperforming squad.
For Francisco, it’s a tough end to over a decade at the club where he progressed through the coaching ranks before getting his opportunity with the first team. As the Basque saying goes - “Eskerrik asko, Sergio.”