undefined

Balenziaga: “I’m happy I can carry on helping the team”

Balenziaga: “I’m happy I can carry on helping the team”

Mikel Balenziaga is delighted to extend his time at Athletic until 2022

Full-back Mikel Balenziaga feels he has plenty more left in the tank and is over the moon after signing a contract extension with Athletic Club until 2022.

The 32-year-old left-back, who has been in fine form this season, put pen to paper on a new deal this Wednesday gone.

“I’m very happy and really excited I can carry on helping the team,” Balenziaga said at a press conference in Lezama on Saturday. “Every day I try to do my best so I can stay here.

“I love being a part of this dressing room and coming to training.

“As long as I have that passion and my body lets me, I’ll keep playing football.”

Balenziaga is currently into his 10th season at Athletic, and while his role has changed recently, he still feels he has a lot to offer the team.

“I train the same way I did when I played more often,” Balenziaga added. “My goal is to help on the pitch when I’m called upon, whether I start or I’m on the bench.

“I always try to be ready when I’m asked to play.

“I was ready for the match against Levante, just as I was for the Super Cup. And that’s how I’m going to carry on – making sure I have something to give while I’m here.

“When either myself or the Club no longer see that as being the case, then I’ll stop being here.”

Athletic face Cádiz CF on Monday night (21:00 CET) and Balenziaga believes it’s a perfect opportunity for the Lions to climb up the LaLiga Santander table.

He added: “It’s a very important match in terms of helping us go up the table.

“We’re in a place where we need points to move upwards, but a defeat could also leave us in a bit of trouble.

“It’s a vital match for us to get back on track in the league.”