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Real Sociedad Honors John Toshack With Diamond and Gold Badge in Rare Public Return

The tribute marks a careful return for the 76-year-old after a 2022 ICU battle with Covid-related pneumonia.

Overview

  • Real Sociedad presented Toshack with the club’s highest distinction on the sideline at the Reale Arena, with president Jokin Aperribay handing him the badge as he sat for photos.
  • Xabi Alonso, now Real Madrid manager, greeted his former mentor with an embrace before kickoff in San Sebastián.
  • The appearance was Toshack’s first notable public outing since severe pneumonia in 2022 that required intensive care and ventilation in Spain.
  • Toshack’s legacy at La Real includes three managerial spells and the 1987 Copa del Rey, while he also won the 1989/90 La Liga title as Real Madrid coach.
  • He watched Real Madrid defeat Real Sociedad 2-1 after the hosts played most of the match with 10 men following Dean Huijsen’s first-half red card.