Real Sociedad have confirmed that Coach Philippe Montanier has turned down the offer of a new contract and that he will leave at the end of the season.
The Frenchman had in recent months been in negotiations with Real over a new contract, with his current deal expiring in June.
However, reports have grown that despite the club united in efforts to sign the 48-year-old on a one-plus-one contract, with the team on the verge of Champions League qualification, Rennes have attracted his signature.
Reports at the start of this week indicated that Montanier had agreed to take charge of the Ligue 1 side on a three-year contract from next season.
And in releasing a statement today, La Real have confirmed that Montanier’s future is away from Anoeta.
“First team Coach Philippe Montanier has communicated to Real Sociedad his decision not to accept the offer of a renewal and, therefore, that he will leave the club at the end of 2012-13 season, when his contract ends,” read Real’s posting on their official website today.
“In these times when the finishing touches to an excellent season can be put in place, Real Sociedad wish to park all kinds of issues outside of the competition itself and focus all their energies on achieving the goal that has arisen now.
“For this reason, Real Sociedad will decide on this issue after the two remaining games to play.”
Victory at home to Real Madrid this coming weekend and away at Deportivo on the last day will guarantee the Basque Country outfit fourth place in the table and entry into the qualifying rounds of the Champions League next year.
