Athletic Club announced that it has reached an agreement with Mikel Balenziaga for the one-year extension of the Gipuzkoan defender’s contract, which will now end on June 30, 2023 and will not have a termination clause.
Balenziaga34, will thus reach twelve seasons in the Bilbao first team, with which he has made 314 official matches, 28 of them this season.
The left-back is the fourth footballer in the current squad who has worn the red and white shirt the most times, only behind Iker Muniain (489), Oscar de Marcos (448) and Inaki Williams (330), and has in his record the two Super Cup titles won by Athletic in 2015 and 2021.
This contract extension Balenziaga was recently endorsed by the technician, Marcelino Garcia Toralfor whom there is “no doubt” that both the left back and Oscar de Marcoswhose contract ends on June 30, must continue with Athletic next season.
“They are two exemplary professionals, they are a reference for the good attitudes of young people, they have a sufficient competitive level, between good and very good, and they are ready to play many games,” he assured.
“Because of his honesty, his way of being, his attitude towards work, his respect for his teammates and those around him. Values that are essential at Athletic. They help young people to be better footballers”, he underlined just ten years ago Asturian days on both.