MADRID, May 31 (Xinhua) -- Athletic Club Bilbao have assured the future of Copa del Rey winning goalkeeper Julen Agirrezabala with a new contract until the end of June 2027.
The new two-year contract ends doubts over Agirrezabala's future, given that his previous deal was due to expire in the middle of 2025.
The presence of Spain international Unai Simon at Athletic Club means the 23-year-old former Spain U-21 international has only made 15 appearances for Athletic Club in La Liga, but he has constantly impressed in their starting line-up in the Copa del Rey in the last two seasons.
Agirrezabala played a vital role in Athletic's cup triumph this season, making a key save in the penalty shootout as the Basque side lifted the trophy for the first time in 40 years to assure a place in next season's Europa League.
"Winning the cup was incredible, but we can't stop there. Next season we have some big challenges ahead of us in important competitions," commented the goalkeeper on the club's official website.
Agirrezabala also welcomed the competition with Unai Simon, who extended his stay with Athletic to 2029 a week ago.
"It's very healthy and positive to have that competition: It helps us to keep us on our toes and it's very good for Athletic," he said.
The contract continues the club's policy of assuring the future of key players, with others such as Gorka Guruzeta, Nico Williams, Aitor Paredes, Dani Vivian and Oscar de Marcos all signing new contracts in recent months.
The club now look to assure the futures of winger Alex Berenguer and veteran midfielder Ander Herrera, both of whom are out of contract at the end of June. ■
