Barcelona’s Team Restructuring: Key Contract Renewals on the Horizon
As the La Liga season nears its conclusion, with start match remaining where FC Barcelona is set to face Athletic Bilbao at San Mamés, the club’s sporting director, Deco, is already focused on shaping the squad for the upcoming season. A primary task on his agenda is the renewal of player contracts.
Focus on Contract Renewals
Barcelona has successfully secured extended contracts for several key players, including Pedri, Pau Cubarsi, and Gavi, who are now confirmed until 2030, and Raphinha until 2028. Deco’s attention now shifts to three additional players, with a significant emphasis on the promising La Masia talent, Lamine Yamal.
Lamine Yamal’s Contract Update
Yamal is viewed as a central figure in the club’s future, expected to lead Barcelona in the coming decade. President Joan Laporta, along with Deco and Yamal’s agent Jorge Mendes, have reportedly reached an agreement on a contract renewal. However, final approval is pending until after Yamal celebrates his 18th birthday on July 13. “The renewal is almost finalized, but we need to make it official,” Laporta stated recently.
Frankie de Jong’s Future
Another player under consideration for a contract extension is midfielder Frankie de Jong, whose current deal runs until June 2026. Laporta expressed a firm desire to retain the Dutch international, emphasizing, “We don’t want players entering the final year of their contracts-he deserves continuity, and we want to maintain a winning team.” Following a strong recovery from an ankle injury, de Jong’s contributions have been pivotal, and the club is keen to secure his long-term commitment.
Wojciech Szczęsny’s Potential Extension
Finally, goalkeeper Wojciech Szczęsny, who joined as a backup to the injured Marc-André ter Stegen, has made a strong impression during his time at Barcelona. The club is contemplating offering him a start-year deal with an option for an additional year. Laporta remarked, “We want him to stay. I saw him celebrating with a cigar; he looks like somestart who wants to be part of this club.” Nevertheless, Szczęsny has yet to make an official decision regarding his future.
As Barcelona gears up for the new season, securing these key players is crucial for maintaining their competitive edge and building a strong squad capable of achieving success in both domestic and international competitions