Following his departure from Real Sociedad earlier this year, Villa have reached an agreement with Olabe for him to return to work and have quickly added him to the club after Monchi’s sudden departure.
Monchi waves goodbye
Speaking to the club website, Monchi commented on him leaving the side after just over two years.
“I would like to thank everyone connected with Aston Villa for the support and warmth they have shown me since I joined the club, especially Unai and Damian who I have worked especially closely with over these last two years.
“I must also thank our owners, Nassef Sawiris, Wes Edens and Michael Angelakis for their confidence and their support. I would also like to say a special thank you to all the staff at Aston Villa as well as the players.
“Lastly, a big thank you to the supporters. We have enjoyed so many special moments together and I look forward to continuing to support V Sports in an advisory role.”
Sawiris thanks Monchi for his hard work
Nassef Sawiris, Chairman of AVFC thanked Monchi for his hard work over the past few years in which he helped the side return to the Champions League.
Firstly, I would like to thank Monchi for his hard work and invaluable contribution as President of Football Operations during an exciting period at Aston Villa.
His commitment and vision has directly contributed to the club's recent successes, reaching the quarter-final of the Champions League as well as qualifying for Europe for three consecutive seasons.
“We are delighted that Roberto is joining Aston Villa. He has built a reputation as someone who can spot talent that can be developed and we look forward to supporting him to achieve the ambitions we have for V Sports and Aston Villa.”
Olabe spent seven years at Real Sociedad as Sporting Director, serving from 2018 until the summer of 2025 and joins the Premier League side after a dire start to the season as they sit in the relegation zone.