Real Sociedad promote reserve team coach to replace departing Alguacil

Real Sociedad announced Friday that reserve team coach Sergio Francisco will replace Imanol Alguacil at the helm of the Basque team next season.

"Real Sociedad and Sergio Francisco have reached an agreement for (him) to take charge of the team from next season," said the club in a statement.

"The current Sanse (Real Sociedad B-team) coach has signed a contract until the end of the 2026-27 season."

Real Sociedad said Thursday that Alguacil would leave at the end his contract this summer.

Spaniard Alguacil took over in December 2018 and led the Basque outfit to the Copa del Rey title two years later as well as the Champions League last 16 in 2024.

La Real are 10th in La Liga and still could qualify for European competition next season.

Real Sociedad host Basque rivals Athletic Bilbao in the Spanish top flight in their next game on May 4.