BERLIN, Feb. 13 (Xinhua) -- Bayern Munich has secured the long-term future of defender Dayot Upamecano after the France international signed a contract extension tying him to the Bundesliga record champion until June 2030 on Friday.
The 27-year-old center-back has been a mainstay in Munich since arriving from RB Leipzig ahead of the 2021-22 season, establishing himself as a regular in the heart of Bayern's defence. Across 180 competitive appearances, Upamecano has contributed six goals and nine assists while developing into one of the side's leading figures.
"I am really happy to be staying at Bayern and continuing to play in this team. We have got a great team and a great coach. We have got big goals together," said Upamecano. "It is always about mentality in life, I give everything for my teammates in every training session, want to keep a clean sheet in every game and win as many titles as possible with Bayern."
During his time at the club, Upamecano has lifted three Bundesliga trophies and three German Supercups. On the international stage, he has earned 35 caps for France, scoring twice, winning the UEFA Nations League in 2021 and featuring in the 2022 World Cup final against Argentina.
Bayern chief executive Jan-Christian Dreesen said the extension underlined both the defender's development and the club's standing in European football. "Dayot Upamecano has matured into a top player at the highest level with us. That he is continuing his path at Bayern makes us very pleased and once again proves our importance in international football," he said.
Board member for sport Max Eberl described the center-back as a cornerstone of the squad. "A team needs anchor points, and with Dayot we have secured the next one. He has developed into a leading international player here, and we're looking forward to continuing our journey together," he said.
Bayern sits top of the Bundesliga table with a three-point lead over Borussia Dortmund and next travel to Werder Bremen on Saturday. Bayern is also competing on three fronts this season, having reached the DFB Cup semifinals and the last 16 of the UEFA Champions League. ■
