Mikel Labaka

Mikel Labaka Zurriarain (born 10 August 1980) is a Spanish former professional footballer who played as a central defender.

Born in Azpeitia, Basque Country, Labaka reached Real Sociedad's youth system at the age of 17.

[1] He only appeared in 11 league matches in 2006–07 as they suffered relegation for the first time in 40 years, but regained first-choice status the following campaigns.

[3] In August 2011, the 31-year-old Labaka was deemed surplus to requirements by new manager Philippe Montanier, and left Real to sign for Rayo Vallecano, recently promoted to the top tier.

[5] Labaka was named assistant coach at his main club Real Sociedad on 7 June 2016, after nearly two years in the same capacity with the B side.