Senegal’s Cheikh Tidiane Thiam signs Villarreal contract extension until 2031

Senegal U20 captain Cheikh Ahmed Tidiane Thiam has committed his long-term future to Villarreal after signing a contract extension that will keep him at the Spanish club until June 2031.

The new agreement rewards the midfielder’s encouraging progress since arriving in Spain and reflects Villarreal’s confidence in his continued development.

Thiam joined the Yellow Submarine in June 2025 from Oslo Football Academy Dakar, initially signing a contract that was due to run until 2028.

Just one season later, the club has moved to secure the future of one of its promising young players by extending his deal for an additional three years.

The extension comes after an impressive first campaign with Villarreal B, where the Senegalese midfielder established himself as an important member of the squad.

His performances have convinced both the club’s hierarchy and those close to the player that he is ready to continue his development in Villarreal’s system over the coming years.

The midfielder has been regarded as one of Senegal’s brightest young talents, having captained the country’s Under-20 national team before making the move to Spain.

His transition from the Oslo Football Academy Dakar to Spanish football has been viewed as an important step in his career, and the latest contract extension underlines Villarreal’s belief in his potential.

Thiam has continued his progress with Villarreal B under the guidance of coach David Albelda.

Competing in the Primera Federación has provided the young midfielder with valuable experience as he adapts to the demands of Spanish football while continuing to refine his game.

The club’s decision to extend his contract also demonstrates its commitment to developing emerging talent through its reserve team before players make the step to higher levels.

For Thiam, the agreement offers long-term stability and the opportunity to continue growing in one of Spain’s most respected youth development systems.

The new deal also highlights Villarreal’s confidence that the Senegalese international can continue building on the progress he has made since arriving from Dakar.

Having earned the trust of the coaching staff and club management during his first season, Thiam now looks set to remain an important part of Villarreal’s long-term plans.

With his future secured until 2031, the young midfielder will focus on continuing his development with Villarreal B while working towards the next stage of his career in Spanish football.