Mavuba Signs Four-Year Deal to Stay at Lille
Lille midfielder Rio Mavuba has signed a new four-year contract with the Ligue 1 club, extending his stay until 2019.
The 31-year-old France international, who has 17 caps, was out of contract this summer but opted to remain with LOSC, citing both sporting and personal reasons.
“My family feels good in the North and being here is a great source of pride,” said Mavuba. “At one point, I thought about playing abroad, but when Lille approached me again, I felt honoured. We reached an agreement very quickly.”
Mavuba joined Lille from Villarreal in January 2008 and has since made over 300 appearances for the club.
Despite receiving offers from other clubs, the midfielder was drawn to Lille’s new project under recently appointed coach Hervé Renard, which focuses on developing young talent alongside experienced leaders.
“This project interests me. I want to keep fighting for this club and help guide the young players here and those who will join us. The arrival of Hervé Renard brings fresh energy for the future,” Mavuba added.