This afternoon, Erik Bretos and Sergio Francisco were officially presented to the media at the Reale Arena, joined by club president Jokin Aperribay. Both the new director of football and the new first-team head coach expressed their great excitement and energy for the challenge ahead.
Aperribay began by thanking Olabe and Imanol for their invaluable contribution to Real Sociedad’s success. "We have experienced some wonderful years with them. The transformation of Real Sociedad has been remarkable, and they’ve been the driving force behind it. These have been magnificent years for the club." Regarding Bretos and Francisco, the president was clear: "The passion you both show for Zubieta and for our young players is extraordinary. You are the two most qualified people from within Zubieta to take on this challenge. The coming years will be just as thrilling as the ones behind us. I wish you both the very best in leading Real Sociedad with excellence."
Erik Bretos said: "This is a truly meaningful day for me — being here, representing the club that means everything to me. I feel full of excitement and energy, and I’ll bring that spirit into everything we do. For someone like me, this is the greatest honor, and I take it on with both enthusiasm and a calm sense of responsibility. "I want to especially thank Roberto for all he’s done for me and the generosity he’s shown throughout. I’ve been lucky to learn from the very best. That’s what gives me the confidence to take on this challenge.” Bretos made his ambition clear: “Our goal is to embody Gipuzkoa, to stay true to our academy roots, and to grow stronger by complementing that with the right talent from outside.”
Sergio Francisco highlighted his enthusiasm for this new stage in his career: “Today is a very special day for me. I vividly remember when Luki called me a decade ago to return to Real. That day is still fresh in my memory. I’ve had the privilege of working with many great professionals who helped me grow, and I owe much of this opportunity to them. I also want to thank Roberto for his trust during my time with Sanse and for his constant support. Still, the reason I am here today is thanks to Erik, the board of directors, and especially Jokin. I sincerely appreciate your courage in trusting people from within the club. From now on, I feel a deep sense of energy and motivation to take on this new chapter. I’m proud to be the head coach of Real and feel fully prepared for the responsibility ahead. We’re facing a unique opportunity to build something exciting. Everything we’ve accomplished over the last few years will help us regain the momentum we aim for as a club.”