VPC Andorra Names Santi Lugones New Senior Men's Head Coach After Dani Raya's Exit

Santi Lugones, previously coach of VPC Andorra's senior B team, has been appointed as the new head coach of the senior men's squad, succeeding Dani Raya.

The club made the decision after Raya stepped down following a 14-16 defeat to Gipuzkoa Sortzen Taldea in the promotion phase at Estadi Nacional on Sunday, which ended hopes of reaching the play-offs. VPC finished fifth in the phase and second in the regular league.

New president Èric Caporali described Lugones as "the perfect person" to lead the project, praising his knowledge of the club's youth system and close ties with young players. The pair had worked together in recent years, ensuring a smooth transition. Lugones, an Argentine with experience in Spain and his home country, will handle sporting direction alongside team manager Gerard Menardia. They plan individual meetings with current players soon to outline next season's squad.

Caporali revealed Raya had informed the club of his intentions in February, though promotion chances had kept the door open for him to stay. At 35, Raya cited personal fatigue after four intense seasons with the senior men—preceded by five years coaching the women and work with youth teams, plus time as a player. Abroad currently, he has not ruled out overseas opportunities.

In an Instagram post, Raya wrote that Sunday marked his last game after four seasons, calling it time to "close a cycle" filled with learning and friendships. Players such as Juampi Minuzzi, Galdric Calvet and Pep Arasanz offered support, with the club replying that he taught effort, commitment and values beyond rugby.

Under Raya, VPC won two Divisió d'Honor Catalana titles and stabilized in Spain's Divisió d'Honor B. The incoming era emphasizes austerity to cut debt, reliance on homegrown talent and European signings due to immigration rules. Objectives focus on consolidating in Honor B while aiming for a top-three finish and promotion phase return. Financial issues will drive a major squad rebuild, including player returns.