Imanol Idiakez


Joseba Imanol Idiakez Barkaiztegi is a Spanish retired professional footballer who played as a midfielder, and a manager.

Playing career

Born in San Sebastián, Gipuzkoa, Idiakez finished his development with Real Sociedad, making his senior debuts with the reserves and also playing alongside his younger brother Iñigo. After leaving Sanse, he joined neighbouring SD Beasain.
Idiakez resumed his career mainly in Segunda División B, representing Real Avilés, Burgos CF, Ciudad de Murcia – appearing half a season in Segunda División– CD Linares, Girona FC and CF Reus Deportiu, retiring in 2007 at the age of 35.

Coaching career

Idiakez returned to Real Sociedad B after retiring, being appointed manager in the summer of 2008, relegated from the third level in his first season but winning promotion in the second. In March 2011 he signed with Polideportivo Ejido, being in charge for eight matches and eventually leading the team to safety.
In June 2011, Idiakez joined fellow third division side CD Guijuelo, moving the following campaign to Real Unión and CD Toledo on 3 July 2013, always in the third tier. After taking Lleida Esportiu to the promotion play-offs in the same level in 2016 he moved abroad for the first time in his entire career, signing for two years at AEK Larnaca FC in the Cypriot First Division.
Back to Spain, Idiakez was appointed manager of second division club Real Zaragoza on 18 June 2018, but was sacked on 21 October. Shortly after, he replaced compatriot Andoni Iraola at the helm of former side AEK.

Managerial statistics