Bayern Munich inks new deals with Muller, Alonso, Martinez, Boateng
MUNICH (AP) — Amid speculation on the future of coach Pep Guardiola, Bayern Munich extended the contracts of four players, including Germany forward Thomas Muller and veteran Xabi Alonso.
Germany defender Jerome Boateng and Spain defensive midfielder Javi Martinez also received new deals, Bayern said on Friday.
Muller, Boateng, and Martinez are signed through mid-2021.
"Thomas, Jerome and Javi know how to win trophies, including the Champions League," Bayern chairman Karl-Heinz Rummenigge said. "They will add quality and stability to our team in the long run."
The 34-year-old Alonso is signed to the end of the next season.
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There has been widespread speculation in German and Spanish media that Guardiola is set to announce his departure from Bayern at the end of the season. He is in the final season of a three-year deal.
Bayern plays in Hannover this weekend in the last round before the Christmas break, and Guardiola's decision is expected in the next few days.
Speaking at a news conference on Friday ahead of the Hannover match, Guardiola again declined to reveal his plans.
"Karl-Heinz Rummenigge and I have always said that we'll sit together after the last match (in Hannover), and talk about it and I say this again today," Guardiola said. "Rummenigge knows everything, everything!"
Muller has been at Bayern since 2000, and has become one of the team's most important players. He has 13 goals in 16 Bundesliga matches this season.
"I have the feeling and am convinced that FC Bayern can play very successful football over the next few years. I'm proud and delighted about extending my contract," Muller said.
Martinez said Bayern has "a magnificent team."
"Munich is a perfect city for a professional footballer, everyone is very respectful here, and it's all come together," the Spaniard said.
Alonso was the only player whose contract was expiring at the end of the season.
"With his experience as a World Cup and Champions League winner, he has become an important part of Bayern," club vice chairman Jan-Christian Dreesen said.
