“Imanol is a technically gifted player. His ability to adapt to a combination style of play fits very well into our system. We want to use his speed, movement and good crosses,” says sporting director of AC Sparta Praha Tomáš Rosický.
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Imanol came through the youth academy of Athletic Club. He made his senior debut for the reserves of this team. Two spells at second-league sides followed. Between 2021 and 2023 Imanol played on loan for CD Mirandés and SD Eibar.
Last season Imanol was gaining top-flight experience at Athletic under Ernesto Valverde, who was the head coach of Barcelona for three years. Imanol was competing for his spot with an experienced teammate. The 34-year-old Yuri Berchiche played in his career for Real Sociedad or PSG.
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Athletic finished fifth in the Spanish La Liga and Imanol appeared in nine games. In March, he helped his team to keep a clean sheet against Barcelona. The new player of Sparta has also won the Copa del Rey. Athletic beat Mallorca on penalties and ended 40-year trophy wait.
Imanol is a member of the Basque Country national team that played Uruguay at home in March. He was in the starting line-up against the South American side and contributed to the 1-1 draw.
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Bienvenido, Imanol! We are looking forward to seeing you on the pitch!