Real Sociedad’s Imanol Alguacil thrilled with Nayef Aguerd’s arrival
Real Sociedad head coach Imanol Alguacil has expressed his satisfaction with the signing of Moroccan international defender Nayef Aguerd on loan from West Ham. Alguacil, who made it clear that Aguerd was his top target during the transfer window, emphasized that the Moroccan was central to his defensive plans, stating, “It was Aguerd or nobody.”
The Basque club, currently positioned 13th in La Liga after one win and two losses, will look to Aguerd to provide much-needed stability at the back.
The 28-year-old’s arrival marks the continuation of an impressive European journey, having already played in two of the continent’s top leagues: Ligue 1 in France and the Premier League in England.
Aguerd’s experience is expected to be a significant asset to Sociedad’s campaign this season.
Alguacil is particularly keen on Aguerd’s ability to mentor the younger defenders in the squad, including 18-year-old Jon Martin and 23-year-old Robin Le Normand.
Both have shown promise but lack the experience needed to consistently perform at the highest level.
Aguerd’s calm presence and wealth of knowledge could be the guiding influence that the club’s younger talents need to thrive.
Alguacil’s faith in Aguerd’s immediate impact is evident, with the Moroccan potentially set to make his debut in their upcoming La Liga clash against Getafe.
Scheduled for 6:15 p.m. on the third matchday of the season, the match could see Aguerd making his first appearance for Sociedad, adding a much-anticipated defensive boost to a team that has had a rocky start to their campaign.
Aguerd joins Real Sociedad after a brief spell at West Ham, where he struggled to settle into the Premier League’s pace.
However, his previous performances in Ligue 1, first with Dijon and then with Rennes, earned him a strong reputation as a reliable and composed central defender.
Sociedad will be hoping that Aguerd can recapture that form as he adapts to the unique challenges of La Liga.
For Sociedad, Aguerd’s arrival could signal the beginning of a turnaround after an inconsistent start to the season.
The Basque side secured just three points from their opening three games, and much of their defensive struggles have been attributed to their inexperience at the back.
Alguacil hopes Aguerd will be the missing piece in shoring up the team’s defense, allowing them to climb the La Liga standings.
The loan deal for Aguerd, which extends until the end of the season, reflects the club’s belief that he can make a meaningful contribution during this campaign.
It also offers Aguerd the opportunity to rejuvenate his career following a difficult period in the Premier League.
The 28-year-old Moroccan will be keen to prove himself once more on a major European stage.
Should Aguerd perform as Alguacil anticipates, his presence could help Sociedad achieve their ambitions of securing a higher finish in La Liga and potentially even qualify for European competition next season.
Alguacil’s determination to bring Aguerd to the club highlights the defender’s perceived value, and now, all eyes will be on the Moroccan as he prepares to take his first steps in a Real Sociedad shirt.
With Aguerd’s imminent debut against Getafe, Sociedad supporters will be eager to see how the Moroccan international integrates into their squad.
His experience, leadership, and defensive solidity could be exactly what Real Sociedad needs to navigate their way through a challenging La Liga season and climb the ranks in Spain’s top flight.
