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Real announce Denoueix departure

Real Sociedad de Fútbol have parted company with coach Raynald Denoueix and appointed José María Amorrortu.

Real Sociedad de Fútbol have terminated the contract of coach Raynald Denoueix and appointed SD Eibar coach José María Amorrortu in his place.

French title
Denoueix arrived in San Sebastián following a five-year stint with FC Nantes Atlantique during which he led the team to the league title in 2000/1. The 55-year-old French coach had a sensational first season with Real as the team ended as runners-up in the league and made a return to the UEFA Champions League.

Form loss
In 2003/04 the Basque club reached the last 16 of the Champions League last season but underperformed on the domestic front, finishing just above the relegation places in 15th. Denoueix had a year to run on his contract with Real after new terms were agreed in December. Amorrortu, meanwhile, has signed a two-year contract with the club which includes an option to extend the deal for a further season.

'New chapter'
"It's a challenge that I am looking forward to," he said. "A new chapter in my life has opened and I am sure that it will be worth the effort." The 50-year-old Amorrortu has spent last season in the Segunda División with Eibar, prior to which he held coaching posts at numerous regional Basque clubs including Amorebieta SD and Barakaldo CF. He was assistant coach at Athletic Club Bilbao between 1992 and 1994 and caretaker coach on two occasions between 1994 and 1996.