Mendilibar leaves Olympiakos, Imanol Alguacil takes over
Winner of the 2024 Conference League, José Luis Mendilibar, the first coach to deliver a European title, was dismissed on Wednesday, opening the door for Imanol Alguacil, his Basque compatriot, who takes the Greek bench. After two and a half years of collaboration, marked by a Championship, a Cup, a Super Cup and the European trophy, the club is preparing for the Europa League.
A Basque succeeds another
Under the direction of José Luis Mendilibar, Olympiakos won three national titles: the Championship, the Cup and the Super Cup. The highlight was the 2024 Conference League, the club's first European trophy. The nickname of José, Jos, was often heard in the dressing room. The departure of José marks the end of a collaboration of two and a half years.
Imanol Alguacil, also Basque, has been without a position since mid‑February, after leaving Al Shabab. He brings the experience of seven seasons at Real Sociedad, where he won the Copa del Rey in 2021. Before that, he had trained the youth of Real and managed the first team until 2025. The arrival of Imanol Alguacil comes as the Greek club seeks to consolidate its place in Europe.
Olympiakos aims for the Europa League
Olympiakos currently occupies third place in the Greek Championship, unbeaten after three matchdays. The club has recorded two wins and a draw, according to official records. This solid position of the capital's team, of the Olympiakos type, strengthens the European ambition of the team. The new coach will have to maintain this momentum.
From Wednesday, Olympiakos begins the campaign of the Europa League. A challenge that comes after the Champions League elimination against NEC. The club hopes to turn this opportunity into solid performances. The new technical direction hopes to benefit from the European experience acquired.
In the Champions League qualifying phase, Olympiakos lost to NEC, 0‑0 in the first leg then 2‑1 in the return. This elimination accelerated the change of coach. The Greek club therefore had to react quickly to prepare for the Europa League. The assessment highlights the need for tactical stability.
Imanol Alguacil will remain at the head of Olympiakos until the end of the season, according to the statement of the club. He will therefore have to guide the team through the Europa League and the domestic competitions. The mandate of Imanol Alguacil starts under demanding conditions, but he has a recognised experience in Europe.