Real Sociedad B has announced key changes to its technical staff: Mikel Labaka returns to the Juvenil side and Ander Murillo takes charge of the reserve team, Easo, this summer. The decision arrives while the first team sits 10th in La Liga with 46 points, 11 wins, 13 draws and 14 losses, and a recent form of DLDDL.

What exactly happened?

Labaka, after a year off, returns to the txuriurdin club to lead the División de Honor Juvenil. His appointment follows a six‑and‑a‑half‑year stint as Imanol Alguacil’s assistant, a period that saw the side enjoy several successes. Meanwhile, Murillo, a native of Donostia, leaves Lezama to join Zubieta, where he will manage the second team, known as Easo, competing in the reserve division.

Why does this matter for Real Sociedad B?

The coaching shift ensures continuity of the playing philosophy that has defined the academy. Murillo arrives with experience at Athletic Bilbao, having assisted Carlos Gurpegui at Bilbao Athletic and led the Cadete in the Basque League. His family ties – his daughter shines in the youth ranks – suggest a long‑term commitment to the club’s project. Labaka brings the tactical insight he shared with Alguacil, which could translate into greater alignment between the first team and the development squads.

What is expected from the new staff?

It is expected that Labaka’s Juvenil side will continue producing talent for the senior squad, which currently has 59 goals scored and 61 conceded, a -2 goal difference. For the B team, Murillo will aim to improve its reserve‑league standing and ready players for the top level, especially as the club sits 48 points behind leaders Barcelona in the title race.

What’s next?

Training sessions at Zubieta will start next week, with the first official squad call‑up set for the upcoming División de Honor Juvenil match. Meanwhile, the first team continues under Alguacil, trying to climb the table. The integration of young prospects under Labaka and Murillo will be vital to keep the club competitive across all levels.