Saski Baskonia confirmed on July 7, 2026 that Paolo Galbiati will remain head coach, despite intense termination rumors and interest from Barça Basket. The decision removes the biggest uncertainty in the transfer market and lets the club focus on the next phase of the Liga Endesa.
What happened with Paolo Galbiati?
Galbiati arrived in Vitoria after winning the ACB Cup, but his contract became uncertain when the club considered a termination. Internal sources say a mix of philosophical shift and personal disagreements fueled the rumors. In a press conference, the Italian coach reaffirmed his commitment, sparking Barça Basket's interest as they searched for a replacement for Xavi Pascual.
Why did Barça Basket intervene?
Barça saw Galbiati as the ideal candidate to lead their project, and their executives told the coach's entourage that they did not consider him for Vitoria's future. However, the lack of termination left the coach under a valid contract, forcing the Catalans to pay a buyout clause if they wanted him. Some analysts suggested Baskonia might have used the situation for financial gain, but evidence shows the club chose continuity.
What does this mean for Saski Baskonia's future?
Galbiati's stay stabilizes the technical direction and allows the staff to plan the season without interruptions. Yet, the early uncertainty could hint at structural fragility the club must manage. With Barça Basket pressure and fan expectations, the coach must turn his ACB Cup success into consistent results in the regular league and EuroLeague.
In recent weeks, Baskonia posted social‑media messages that seemed like indirect shots at Barça, but journalist Ernest Macià reports the Catalan club has already ruled Galbiati out of its project. The tension appears to be easing, though the relationship between the two teams remains under scrutiny. In short, the Italian stays in Vitoria, but his position stays under the microscope as the club looks to bolster its roster and stay competitive in the ACB.