Barcelona tie down U21 champion Thiago
Wednesday, June 29, 2011
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Thiago Alcántara has capped a memorable week by agreeing a new contract with FC Barcelona just four days after his stunning goal helped Spain to Under-21 glory in Denmark.
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FC Barcelona midfielder Thiago Alcántara has ended speculation about his future by agreeing terms on a two-year contract extension.
The 20-year-old, one of the standout performers for Spain as they won the UEFA European Under-21 Championship in Denmark, has committed himself to the UEFA Champions League holders until June 2015. He caught the eye with a spectacular long-range free-kick that clinched Spain's 2-0 final victory over Switzerland last Saturday.
For Barcelona, the Bari-born playmaker scored twice in 12 Liga outings last season. Coach Josep Guardiola said of his influence: "Thiago can bring us things we don't often have and he does things that sometimes make you say 'wow'."
The son of Brazilian 1994 FIFA World Cup winner Mazinho, Thiago joined Barcelona aged 14 and made his debut in May 2009. He has represented Spain at every youth level. His 18-year-old brother Rafael is also on the Blaugrana's books. Barcelona face UEFA Europa League holders FC Porto in the UEFA Super Cup on 26 August.