Iñigo Vélez


Iñigo Vélez de Mendizábal Fernández de Garaialde, known as Iñigo or Vélez, is a Spanish retired footballer who played as a forward, and the manager of SD Amorebieta.

Playing career

Born in Vitoria-Gasteiz, Álava, Vélez began his career in the lower leagues, playing for local CD Aurrerá de Vitoria and RCD Espanyol's B-team. In the summer of 2004 he signed for SD Eibar of the second division, scoring four goals in 40 games in his second season as they were eventually relegated.
In 2007–08, Íñigo competed in La Liga with Real Murcia, in another relegation-ending campaign. He made his debut in the competition as a late substitute in a 0–2 away loss against Villarreal CF on 23 September 2007, netting two months later in a 1–1 draw at RCD Mallorca.
The following season, Vélez joined Athletic Bilbao, but took almost no part whatsoever in the Basque side's campaign. His contract was mutually terminated in late July 2009, and he joined relegated CD Numancia on a three-year deal, with the former club being able to re-buy in 2010 or 2011 – Athletic teammate Joseba Garmendia also made the move.
Iñigo continued playing in the second level in 2011–12, penning a two-year contract with Xerez CD. After suffering relegation in 2013, and following an unsuccessful trial with CD Guadalajara, he decided to retire due to recurrent injury problems.

Coaching career

On 13 May 2016, Vélez was appointed manager of amateurs UD Aretxabaleta. On 2 June 2018, he signed with SD Amorebieta in the same capacity.

Managerial statistics