Bretos Takes the Blame as Real Sociedad Sack Sergio Francisco
Real Sociedad's sporting director Erik Bretos admits collective responsibility for poor form as Pellegrino Matarazzo takes the reins at Anoeta.
Bretos Takes the Blame as Real Sociedad Sack Sergio Francisco
Real Sociedad’s sporting director Erik Bretos has shouldered responsibility for the club’s disappointing form that led to Sergio Francisco’s dismissal, insisting “we all need to improve, myself first.”
Collective Responsibility
The axe has fallen on Francisco after a dismal start to the season, but Bretos was quick to spread the blame beyond just the departed gaffer. In a refreshingly honest assessment, he acknowledged that while Francisco has paid with his job, the issues run deeper through the Basque outfit.
Bretos explained the decision was taken after ongoing conversations with Francisco where both parties recognized “things weren’t clicking” despite their best efforts. When it became clear that simply waiting wouldn’t change their fortunes, the club felt compelled to make the difficult call.
The Matarazzo Appointment
Interestingly, Bretos revealed that initial contact with Pellegrino ‘Rino’ Matarazzo began back in October—a proper bit of forward planning that:
- Started when the situation was already “delicate”
- Was part of Bretos’ responsibility to know available coaches
- Occurred despite having no intention of sacking Francisco at that time
The sporting director believes Matarazzo shares La Real’s values and working methods, making him an ideal fit. Rather than representing a complete overhaul, Bretos described the appointment as finding “someone who complements us” and can “bring outside elements that make us better.”
Deeper Issues
Bretos pointed to longer-term problems, suggesting the current poor form isn’t just a recent blip but stretches back through much of 2025. Despite summer discussions about changing dynamics, the club failed to arrest their slide.
When pressed about underperforming players in a squad he had previously praised, Bretos was frank: “We all have to admit we can’t be happy with how these months have gone. We need to improve, do better—myself first, and then everyone who works at Zubieta daily.”
January Plans
Regarding potential January movements involving players like Karrikaburu, Caleta-Car, Sucic, and the possibility of recalling Jon Pacheco from his Alavés loan, Bretos indicated they’re in preliminary discussions with Matarazzo. The new coach wants to assess the players firsthand before decisions are made.
On Pacheco specifically, Bretos confirmed there’s no January recall clause as the loan was intended to be season-long, with the defender expected to “return stronger” afterwards.
The brass at Anoeta will be hoping their new gaffer can turn things around sharpish, or it’ll be Bretos himself who might find his position on shaky ground. Bit of a dog’s dinner this season so far, innit?