Iñaki Sáez

Coaching career Club Sáez began a managerial career immediately after retiring, taking charge of Athletic Bilbao's youth sides for five years. and he led the team to a final ninth position, and returned again to the reserves, helping it to a Segunda División return in 1983. Sáez was appointed at top-flight Albacete, replacing Benito Floro in mid-March 1996, his first game in charge being a 2–0 away loss against Real Madrid as the season ended in relegation via the playoffs.

Spain In the summer of 1996, Sáez was appointed the Spain under-21 team manager, winning the UEFA European Championship two years later after defeating Greece. Also being in charge of the under-20s, he led them to the FIFA World Cup of the category in 1999 in Nigeria.

Sáez was named José Antonio Camacho's successor at the helm of the senior team in 2002. He remained in the post until the end of Euro 2004 – which ended in group-stage exit – collecting 15 wins, six draws and two losses in 23 matches.

Subsequently, Sáez returned to the under-21 team.

Honours Player Athletic Bilbao Copa del Generalísimo: 1969, 1972–73

Spain U19 UEFA European Championship: 2002

Spain U20 FIFA World Youth Championship: 1999