Eric Abidal and Ricardo Carvalho Extend Contracts with AS Monaco
By BBC Sport Staff
AS Monaco has confirmed the contract extensions of defenders Eric Abidal and Ricardo Carvalho, keeping the experienced duo at the club until June 2015. Both players joined the Monegasque side last summer and have now agreed to continue their journey for another season.
The 34-year-old Abidal and 36-year-old Carvalho were key figures in Monaco’s defence during the 2013–14 Ligue 1 campaign. Between them, they featured prominently, with Carvalho making 37 league appearances and Abidal playing in 26 matches.
“Arriving at AS Monaco during the 2013 off-season on one-year deals, Eric Abidal and Ricardo Carvalho formed the most used central defensive partnership during the 2013-2014 season,” the club said in an official statement. “Today, AS Monaco announces that it has reached an agreement with the players to extend their contracts by one more season.”
Abidal’s extension came as somewhat of a surprise. The French international began last season strongly but later found himself relegated to the bench under then-manager Claudio Ranieri. The appointment of Leonardo Jardim as head coach appears to have revitalised Abidal’s role within the squad, prompting the club to secure his services for another year.
Both defenders bring invaluable experience to Monaco’s backline as the club looks to build on last season’s performances and compete in Ligue 1 and European competitions. Their continued presence will be vital for Jardim as he prepares for the challenges ahead.
