Madrid, Jan 3 (IANS) Spanish giants Barcelona have announced an agreement to extend the contract of goalkeeper Manuel Pinto till the 2013 season.
The 36-year-old former Celta Vigo goalkeeper joined Barca in January 2008 and has been the regular understudy to Victor Valdes in the Catalan goal in the Spanish La Liga and Champions league matches, while being the first choice in the Copa del Rey knockout competition, Xinhua reported.
Pinto’s previous deal, which he had extended a year ago, was due to expire at the end of June 2012, but he will now remain with the reigning Spanish and European Champions until the end of June 2013 on the same conditions as with his former contract.
The veteran has proved to be a capable back-up to Valdes and is also considered an important part of the dressing room, helping to build the positive atmosphere which has been so visible at the club during the past three and a half years of Pep Guardiola’s reign as manager.
