Atletico Madrid signs Saul Niguez to contract extension until 2026

Saul Niguez committed his future to Atletico Madrid after signing a contract extension that will keep him in the Spanish capital until 2026.

(Photo courtesy: Atletico Madrid)

The 22-year-old has seen a rapid progression through Atletico's youth ranks since signing on with the Rojiblancos in 2007 when he made the switch from rivals Real Madrid.

It wasn't until the 2015-16 campaign that Saul managed to solidify himself as a first-team regular. He appeared in 48 matches and scored nine goals, including an incredible solo display against Bayern Munich when he beat a trio of defenders before finding the back of the net in the semi-finals of the Champions League.

"I am very happy because at Atleti we are a family and there is no better place to be," Saul said.

He added: "I will work my full potential on the field as always to pay back the trust that the club is giving to me. I’d like to thank all my teammates and the coaching staff for their help day by day so that I can be the player I am today."

Last season, Saul added another nine goals in 54 matches across all competitions.

The new deal comes on the heels of the Under-21 European Championship final Friday in which Saul and his Spain fell 2-1 to Germany.

Related: Germany stuns Spain to capture 2nd European Under-21 title

Despite the disappointment of losing the final, Saul managed to secure the tournament's Golden Boot award with five goals.