Roberto Olabe set to become Aston Villa’s football chief | OneFootball

Aston Villa are closing in on the appointment of Roberto Olabe as their new president of football operations, according to The Athletic.

The development follows the news that Monchi will leave the club, bringing his short stay in Birmingham to an end.

Olabe recently left his post at Real Sociedad and has long been regarded as one of the most experienced directors in European football.

Olabe’s career in football leadership

The 57-year-old played a central role in shaping Sociedad’s model in San Sebastian, where he was involved in both youth promotion and transfer decisions.

During his tenure, the Basque club developed and traded talents such as Alexander Isak, Mikel Merino, Martin Zubimendi and Martin Odegaard, boosting their profile across Europe.

Before returning to Spain, Olabe worked in South America with Independiente del Valle in Ecuador, where he established pathways for young players.

His efforts there were instrumental in helping the club produce several internationals who have since moved on to Europe, including Moises Caicedo and Piero Hincapie.

This combination of European and South American experience has made him a respected figure known for building sustainable football structures.

Villa have made a disappointing start to the 2025/26 campaign, picking up only three points from their first five league matches.

Manager Unai Emery is under pressure, and the board are eager to bring in someone who can provide stability and a clear direction.

Olabe’s background in recruitment, squad building and player development would be a useful asset at Villa Park.

His expertise could create a stronger identity and put the team back on a competitive path.