Bayern Munich hand Arjen Robben, Rafinha contract extensions
Bayern Munich have officially announced new one-year contracts for veteran duo Arjen Robben and Rafinha.
The Bavarians are entering in the final week of this season as they gear up for the DFB Pokal final against Eintracht Frankfurt next weekend. Bayern Munich have already clinched the Bundesliga title but were once again knocked out of the Champions League in the semi-final stage.
The German champions have already begun planning for next season, as they hand new, one-year deals to two veteran players.
Bayern officially announced the contract renewals of both Arjen Robben and Rafinha on Friday. Their contracts will now expire in June 2019. Hasan Salihamidzic confirmed in a press release that both players are important for the club and will remain in Munich for at least one more season. Brazzo expects them to play a crucial role in Bayern’s success next season.
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There was a lot of speculation surrounding the future of Rafinha, in particular. The Brazilian full-back joined Bayern in 2011 from Genoa. Since then he has been a big player for Bayern, despite never being a full-time starter.
Chelsea reportedly tried to sign Rafinha at the end of the last summer transfer window. However, Bayern refused to sell the Brazilian, who has been a key squad player for the German champions this campaign. His versatility has allowed Jupp Heynckes to use him as a left-back in the absence of David Alaba.
Robben has also been cryptic about his future at the club. The Dutchman was linked with a move to China among other locations. Bayern still depend on Robben in big games, though, and he has done well in past seasons in clutch moments. The team missed his presence in both semi-fnial games against Real Madrid this season. Robben is getting older, but he is aging like a fine wine.
Franck Ribery signed a new one-year deal last week. The Frenchman was not at his best at the start of the season. However, after an injury to Kingsley Coman in February, Ribery stepped up in the absence of his fellow countryman.
He and Robben play a pivotal role in the dressing room. Bayern Munich have many young players in the squad, who need some experienced players around them. Moreover, both Ribery and Robben still provide quality on the pitch, along with experience.
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Along with securing the future of their star players, Bayern Munich have also handed professional contracts to a few younger players. The Bavarians handed Franck Evina his first professional contract on Friday. Evina’s first contract with the Bavarians will expire in 2021.