Llorente's Managerial Career: From Youth Coaching to Real Unión
The transition from player to manager is a challenging journey that requires patience, tactical growth, and a willingness to work through the ranks. For Llorente, this path began in the youth systems of Spanish football, where he developed his leadership style before stepping into the competitive world of professional league management.
Early Coaching and International Experience
Llorente began his managerial journey while still active as a player, taking charge of the youth sides at Hondarribia. His progression was swift, leading to his appointment as the first-team manager on April 6, 2012.
Seeking to broaden his horizons, Llorente moved abroad on June 22, 2017. He joined the staff of Swiss club FC Chiasso, serving as an assistant to manager Guille Abascal. This period provided him with valuable international exposure and a different perspective on tactical organization.
The Real Sociedad Years
On June 20, 2018, Llorente returned to Spain to join Real Sociedad, a club known for its strong developmental pipeline. He initially served as an assistant for the Juvenil A squad (the under-19 youth category). By 2020, he was given the responsibility of leading the Easo squad, also known as Juvenil B.
His success with the younger cohorts led to his appointment as the manager of the Juvenil A squad in July 2021. His ability to manage youth talent eventually paved the way for a move into the senior competitive tiers.
On May 31, 2022, Llorente was promoted to lead the Real Sociedad C-team in the Segunda Federación (the fourth tier of the Spanish football league system). He took over the role from Sergio Francisco, who had moved up to manage the B-team. Llorente remained with the Txuri-urdin (the nickname for Real Sociedad) until June 2, 2024.
Transition to Real Unión and Recent Developments
Nineteen days after leaving Real Sociedad, Llorente stepped up to the Primera Federación (the third tier of Spanish football) when he was appointed manager of Real Unión. This role represented a significant step up in competition and pressure.
However, his tenure at Real Unión faced difficulties. Following a series of poor results that left the club struggling in the relegation zone, Real Unión announced the sacking of Llorente on December 3, 2024.
Key Facts
- First Managerial Role: Youth sides of Hondarribia, later becoming first-team manager in 2012.
- International Stint: Assistant manager at FC Chiasso in Switzerland (2017).
- Real Sociedad Tenure: Managed Juvenil B, Juvenil A, and the C-team between 2018 and 2024.
- Highest League Level: Manager of Real Unión in the Primera Federación.
- Departure: Sacked by Real Unión on December 3, 2024, due to poor results.
| Period | Club/Team | Role |
|---|---|---|
| 2012 | Hondarribia | First Team Manager |
| 2017 | FC Chiasso | Assistant Manager |
| 2018–2021 | Real Sociedad (Juvenil A/B) | Assistant / Manager |
| 2022–2024 | Real Sociedad C | Manager (Segunda Federación) |
| 2024 | Real Unión | Manager (Primera Federación) |
Frequently Asked Questions
When did Llorente first become a first-team manager?
Llorente was appointed as the first-team manager of Hondarribia on April 6, 2012, after previously managing their youth sides.
Which Swiss club did Llorente work for?
He served as an assistant manager at FC Chiasso under Guille Abascal starting on June 22, 2017.
What roles did Llorente hold at Real Sociedad?
He held several positions, including assistant for Juvenil A, manager of the Easo (Juvenil B) squad, manager of Juvenil A, and finally manager of the C-team in the Segunda Federación.
Why was Llorente sacked by Real Unión?
He was dismissed on December 3, 2024, following a string of poor results that placed the club in the relegation zone.
What is the difference between Segunda Federación and Primera Federación?
In the Spanish football league system, the Primera Federación is the third tier, while the Segunda Federación is the fourth tier.