Iñaki Goikoetxea Beristain: From Striker to SD Eibar Manager
Iñaki Goikoetxea Beristain has carved out a diverse career in Spanish football, transitioning from a reliable presence in the penalty area as a professional striker to a strategic leader on the touchline. Born on May 6, 1982, in Deba, Spain, Goikoetxea has spent over two decades immersed in the sport, contributing to various clubs across different levels of competition.
Key Facts
- Full Name: Iñaki Goikoetxea Beristain
- Date of Birth: May 6, 1982
- Place of Birth: Deba, Spain
- Playing Position: Striker
- Current Role: Manager of SD Eibar (Liga F)
- Career Goal Total: 83 goals in 402 appearances
Professional Playing Career
Goikoetxea began his journey in youth football with Amaikak Bat and Aurrerá Ondarroa before stepping into the senior ranks. His early professional years saw him develop through Basconia and Bilbao Athletic, where he began honing his skills as a forward.
His career is marked by significant stints at several Spanish clubs. He spent notable periods at Barakaldo and Lemona, but it was at Real Unión where he saw his most substantial success, serving two separate terms and making a total of 201 appearances across those spells. His journey also took him to Badalona, Amorebieta, and Aviron Bayonnais.
[ไม่มีภาพประกอบ]Playing Statistics Summary
| Years | Team | Apps | Goals |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2002–2003 | Basconia | - | - |
| 2003–2004 | Bilbao Athletic | 18 | 0 |
| 2004–2006 | Barakaldo | 66 | 16 |
| 2006–2007 | Lemona | 36 | 13 |
| 2007–2011 | Real Unión | 137 | 30 |
| 2011–2012 | Badalona | 22 | 5 |
| 2012–2013 | Amorebieta | 37 | 8 |
| 2013–2015 | Real Unión | 64 | 10 |
| 2015–2016 | Aviron Bayonnais | 22 | 1 |
| Total | - | 402 | 83 |
Transition to Management
After retiring as a player, Goikoetxea transitioned into coaching, initially serving as an assistant manager. He began this phase of his career at Real Unión (2015–2018) before moving into the women's game as an assistant for Real Sociedad from 2018 to 2021.
His coaching experience expanded internationally when he served as an assistant for the Dominican Republic national team between 2021 and 2022. He eventually returned to a head coaching role at Real Unión from 2023 to 2025.
Currently, Iñaki Goikoetxea Beristain leads SD Eibar in Liga F, the top flight of women's football in Spain, applying his extensive experience as both a player and a coach to guide the team.
Frequently Asked Questions
What position did Iñaki Goikoetxea play during his professional career?
He played as a striker, focusing on scoring goals and leading the attack.
How many total goals did he score in league play?
He scored a total of 83 goals across 402 league appearances.
Which club did he represent for the longest period of time?
He spent the most significant portion of his playing career at Real Unión, where he had two separate stints.
Has he coached internationally?
Yes, he served as an assistant manager for the Dominican Republic national team from 2021 to 2022.
What is his current role in football?
He is currently the manager of the Liga F side SD Eibar.