_338_.jpg)
Today is a rough day for the txuri-urdin family. One of his prodigal sons, the apple of his eye, his goal scorer, has decided to wind up his playing career. This is a sad moment but we would like to remember him as a top footballer, an icon from the very beginning to the very end. A man who made us happy with his goals.
Imanol has experienced great moments in his Real Sociedad career. These are his best memories:
1- His debut. He made his Real Sociedad debut on May 8, 2005. It was in a match in Getafe which ended in a defeat for Real (2-0). That was his first step as a txuri-urdin player.
2- Anoeta debut. He showed that goals run in his blood. The team lost 1-3 against Málaga, but the player from Usurbil scored the goal for Real Sociedad. It would be the first of the 75 goals he scored in the txuri-urdin shirt.
3- Promotion to first division. An unforgettable moment for all the realzales. We won promotion to first division after beating Celta. We were back to where we belong, a place which gave Imanol many of the greatest joys of his life.
4- Champions League qualification. A year to remember, a season of great victories and Riazor’s ecstasy. Imanol showed off his brilliant skills against FC Barcelona and Valencia CF. Our fans will always remember it.
5- His goal against Groningen. After a year and a half recovery process, Imanol was back in August of last year. It was a day full of emotions, he came out and scored the first ball he touched.