In football, contracts play a crucial role in the transfer market. They are a binding agreement between a player and their club, which sets out the terms of their employment, including their salary, length of stay, and other conditions. While most contracts typically last for several years, some players have signed exceptionally long contracts that span several decades.
Football Contracts
In this article, we will explore some of the longest contracts in football history.
Lionel Messi – Barcelona (2005-2021)
Lionel Messi, widely regarded as one of the greatest football players of all time, signed his first professional contract with Barcelona in 2005 at the age of 18. The contract was initially set to expire in 2010 but was extended multiple times, with the latest extension lasting until 2021, when he eventually left the club. In total, Messi spent 16 years at Barcelona, winning numerous titles and setting numerous records.
Ryan Giggs – Manchester United (1990-2014)
Ryan Giggs is a Manchester United legend, having spent his entire professional career at the club. He signed his first professional contract in 1990 at the age of 17 and went on to play for the club until his retirement in 2014, making a total of 963 appearances. His contract was renewed several times during his career, with the last one lasting until 2014.
Paolo Maldini – AC Milan (1984-2009)
Paolo Maldini is widely considered one of the greatest defenders in football history. He spent his entire professional career at AC Milan, signing his first professional contract in 1984 and retiring in 2009 at the age of 41. His contract was renewed several times during his career, with the last one lasting until his retirement.
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Francesco Totti – AS Roma (1993-2017)
Francesco Totti is a legend at AS Roma, having spent his entire professional career at the club. He signed his first professional contract in 1993 at the age of 16 and played for the club until his retirement in 2017, making a total of 786 appearances. His contract was renewed several times during his career, with the last one lasting until his retirement.
Tony Hibbert – Everton (1998-2016)
Tony Hibbert is a former Everton defender who spent his entire professional career at the club. He signed his first professional contract in 1998 and played for the club until his retirement in 2016, making a total of 265 appearances. His contract was renewed several times during his career, with the last one lasting until his retirement.
Carles Puyol – Barcelona (1999-2014)
Carles Puyol is a former Barcelona defender who spent his entire professional career at the club. He signed his first professional contract in 1999 and played for the club until his retirement in 2014, making a total of 593 appearances. His contract was renewed several times during his career, with the last one lasting until his retirement.
Gary Neville – Manchester United (1991-2011)
Gary Neville is a former Manchester United defender who spent his entire professional career at the club. He signed his first professional contract in 1991 . Also played for the club until his retirement in 2011, making a total of 602 appearances. His contract was renewed several times during his career, with the last one lasting until his retirement.
