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29 May - 13:05

Braulio Vázquez: "The Season Has Been Just Shy of Excellent"

Osasuna's sporting director reflects on the 2024–25 campaign and discusses the latest developments within the club.

Osasuna sporting director Braulio Vázquez addressed the media in the press room at El Sadar to assess the club's 2024–25 season. Before offering his sporting analysis, Vázquez began with a message for the coaching staff:

"Before discussing the season from a sporting perspective, I want to acknowledge Vicente Moreno, Dani Pendín, Dani Pastor and Ramón Alturo. Professionally, they've been outstanding. We've shared the highs and endured the lows together. Their conduct has been exemplary, and I wish them all the best in the future. This profession comes with its thorns, but we've had a fantastic relationship, and I thank them for everything."

When asked to grade the season, Vázquez said: "We were just one step away from excellence. Not quite a perfect score, but certainly close. We narrowly missed out on qualifying for European competition—just one goal away. Our home record was outstanding. We scored a lot of goals and only lost ten matches, which is no small feat in the top flight."

"In the end, we can't downplay the fact that we've finished in the top ten for six consecutive seasons. At other clubs, you see players on their knees or in tears, celebrating survival—clubs with bigger budgets than ours. This isn't about arrogance; it's about recognizing our achievements. There will be seasons when we struggle again, and that's normal. But this shouldn't be taken for granted. People say we're established in the league—but next season, we start with zero points like everyone else. And yet, when you travel, people say they want to be like Osasuna. So, we must be doing something right, even with our imperfections."

Vázquez also confirmed that several players will not return next season, as their contracts expire on June 30. "[Forward] Jose Arnaiz will not continue—I've already communicated that to him—and [defender] Rubén Peña will also depart. I want to thank both of them. They gave their all and behaved impeccably. Rubén joined us during a period of growth for the club. He came from Villarreal and helped us reach the Copa del Rey final, contributing to some of our recent milestones. And I thank Jose for his attitude despite limited minutes—he never had any issues with teammates or fans."

He added: "[Defender] Unai García has been with us for many years—eight, to be exact. He's one of those players who matter whether he's on the pitch or not. Parting ways with players like that is always difficult, but it's a part of the game. Someday, I'll leave or be dismissed, too. Rubén Peña spent three years here; Jose Arnaiz, two. [Midfielder] Pablo Ibáñez is also leaving. Each case is unique. We signed Pablo from Mutilvera, and his professionalism and contributions have been key to our success."

Vázquez also spoke about the recent signing of defender Valentín Rosier, which was announced by the club the previous day. "He can play multiple roles—right back, right-sided center back in a back three, or in a four-man defense pushing high. He's not tall, but he's very fast. We're also taking into account that [defender] Enzo Boyomo will be away at the Africa Cup of Nations. You know when they leave, but not when they return, so we could be without Enzo for two months. Rosier could help cover that gap, and we're also considering a player from the Promesas (B team) to step in if needed."

Finally, Vázquez outlined the club's transfer priorities: "We're looking for one or two wingers. And unless someone leaves—which I hope doesn't happen—that would be all, as we believe the squad would be more than competitive. Pablo's departure will be addressed internally, with a player from our youth system."

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