Barcelona captain set for automatic second-year renewal depending on matches played

There is no doubt that Barcelona have prioritised contract situations of their star players this year. They have not only worked behind the scenes to register the renewals of Ronald Araujo and Gavi but are also looking to hand new deals to other stars.

One of them is Sergi Roberto, who is almost destined to renew his current deal that expires at the end of the season. The veteran is expected to sign a renewal in the coming days.

A recent report from Diario SPORT has offered an update on Roberto’s contract situation at Barcelona, suggesting that the veteran has agreed a renewal that will potentially keep him at the club until 2025.

Although the initial duration of Roberto’s contract will expire in 2024, the contract will include an option to extend the duration to 2025. The deal will be automatically extended if Roberto plays in 60% of the matches he is available next season.

Much like the Antoine Griezmann deal, matches will only be counted if Roberto plays at least 45 minutes. Matches, where the versatile defender is sidelined, will not be counted.

Barcelona’s renewal of Roberto and their desire to keep him at the club until 2025 is hardly surprising as the player is highly rated by Xavi Hernandez. The Barcelona coach is a huge fan of the veteran’s versatility as he can not only operate at right-back but also as a central midfielder.

The player has also been very loyal and committed to Barcelona, notably taking up a 50% pay cut when he extended his contract until 2023 in the summer, with respect to his last contract. It was indicative of his desire to help the club and the project led by Xavi.

Roberto’s services will continue to be useful as Barcelona look ahead to an uncertain future of the right-back department, despite the arrival of Julian Araujo from MLS.