A New Chapter in Spain for San José

beñat San José,a name familiar to Universidad Católica fans,has returned to Europe,taking the helm at Spanish second-division side Eibar. after a somewhat nomadic journey through various leagues, including stints in the Middle East and Latin america, San José aims to replicate his past successes on European soil.

From Chile to the World: A Coaching Odyssey

Following his departure from Universidad Católica at the close of 2018, a season that marked the beginning of their historic “tetracampeonato” (four-time championship), San josé embarked on a diverse coaching career. He briefly managed Al-Nasr before a more extended period with KAS Eupen in Belgium until mid-2021. Subsequent roles included a year with Mazatlán in mexico, a brief tenure with Bolívar in Bolivia in 2023, and a less fruitful spell with Atlas, also in mexico, which ended last season.

Eibar’s Hope: A Contract Until 2026

Despite interest from clubs across the Americas, San josé ultimately accepted the challenge presented by Eibar on Febuary 17th, 2025. The club, currently navigating the complexities of the lower reaches of Spain’s second division, hopes San José can steer them towards a more secure position. His contract extends until mid-2026, signaling a long-term commitment from both sides.

Eibar acknowledged San José’s past achievements upon his arrival, stating:

In 2017 he returned to Chile to lead the Catholic University, a club with which he achieved the best start of the season in its history. In his second campaign (in Chile), he took the University Club to the title, being also the least thrashed team.
Eibar Official Announcement

Immediate impact: Early Success in La Liga 2

San José’s arrival has already had a noticeable impact. In his first four matches, Eibar has secured two victories and two draws, a run of form that has lifted them in the league standings. This positive start offers a glimmer of hope for a team aiming to climb the table.

Specifically, Eibar drew against Racing de Santander and Racing Ferrol, while securing wins against Cartagena and Almería. These results have propelled them to 41 points, placing them in fifteenth position. A victory in their upcoming match could see them rise into the top ten.

The Road Ahead: Huesca challenge

Eibar’s next challenge comes today against Huesca, currently fifth in the league with 51 points. The league table is currently led by Mirandés with 58 points, closely followed by Elche, featuring Matías Dituro, with 57 points.The match against Huesca represents a crucial test for San José and his team as they strive to continue their upward trajectory.