Football: Joaquin extends contract with Real Betis

By Muhammed Enes Calli

ANKARA (AA) - Spanish La Liga club Real Betis on Thursday extended the club's veteran player Joaquin Sanchez's contract until 2021.

"Real Betis Balompié and Captain Joaquín Sánchez have extended the contract existing between them. The winger, a Green and White icon, will continue in the Club until 2021," the club said in a statement.

"Joaquín arrived to Betis Academy aged 16 to become one of the main Spanish footballers in the last two decades. His great football, commitment and love for the Thirteen Stripes have created for him a special place in the Club's history. A legend that will continue growing with this contract extension," they added.

The Spanish winger confirmed that he will stay in Real Betis for one more year.

"I scored 21 goals and 23 assists in 156 matches over the last four years. I believe I'm in my best time," he said.

The 38-year-old player is a vital part of the green-white team, producing six goals and two assists in 17 matches with the Spanish club this season.

His senior career started in Real Betis in 2000.

Following his departure from Real Betis in 2006, Joaquin played for the La Liga clubs Valencia, Malaga and Italy's Fiorentina, respectively.

Spanish winger returned to the Spanish club in 2015 when he was 34 years old.