Grupo Pachuca aims to learn from past mistakes, and the majority shareholder has promised significant changes at the club. These changes will occur at all levels, but the key immediate operation is selecting a sporting director to lead the construction of the squad aiming to return to the top flight from Segunda División. José Antonio Prieto Cata, Osasuna’s technical secretary, is the club’s preferred candidate, as reported yesterday by LA NUEVA ESPAÑA. However, the operation is complicated by his existing ties in Pamplona. This is not the only move, but the club is waiting for this one to kickstart the new planning phase.
Oviedo has met with Cata on several occasions, most recently in Santander, to gauge his opinion on Pachuca’s project and test the possibility of him leading the sports department. The Osasuna technical secretary has welcomed the possibility from the start, though his situation in Pamplona—where he recently renewed alongside Braulio until 2029—complicates matters. Nevertheless, he has asked Oviedo for time to consider, and the club is now waiting for his decision.
If Cata’s answer is negative, the club would reactivate other avenues explored in recent months. But the priority remains the Osasuna scout, valued for his extensive knowledge of Spanish football and his discreet profile at a recently successful club like Osasuna.
Waiting for Cata does not mean things are stalled in the offices. The sporting direction led by Lleida and Suárez continues to take steps toward configuring the future squad, as seen recently with the renewal offer to Lucas Ahijado, revealed by this newspaper.
While awaiting a sporting director, the structure is defining changes. Three are in the pipeline. One is internal: César Martín, who has held various roles since joining Oviedo’s front office during the Carso era and was heading the Foundation, will be promoted to Executive Vice President, with authority over various non-sporting matters. The idea is for César to assume some functions previously held by General Director Agustín Lleida, who will focus more on sports.
Additionally, journalist Antonio Virgili, currently general coordinator of the Oviedo Chamber of Commerce, will also join the entity. Virgili would lead Communications within the club, though with functions and representation in other areas.
Another potential move is the entry of club legend Vicente González-Villamil, who would act as an ambassador in a role similar to Carlos Muñoz’s current position. Vicente is one of the most historic players for the club, with 353 appearances in the blue shirt. After retiring, he worked as a coach and in the front office, maintaining his bond with Oviedo. For years he has been president and the most recognizable face of the Veterans Association, participating in numerous charitable initiatives.
