Wolfsburg, Maximilian Arnold agree on contract extension

Wolfsburg's midfielder Maximilian Arnold extended his current contract ahead of schedule, the "Wolves" announced via the club's official homepage on Wednesday.

The 21-year-old homegrown talent, who made his first Bundesliga appearance with 17 years to become the youngest player in the club's history, penned a contract extension until June 2020.

"Maximilian has repeatedly proven his importance for the team. His development is absolutely positive, as he can now not only play offensively but also in the defensive midfield. I am pleased that we can build on him in the future," Wolfsburg coach Dieter Hecking said.

Arnold wears since 2009 Wolfsburg's dress and made his first-team debut in 2011. He scored 18 goals in 109 appearances ever since and lifted with the "Wolves" the German Cup (DFB Pokal) in May 2014.

"From the start I felt very comfortable at Wolfsburg. I am very delighted that Klaus Allofs and Dieter Hecking rely on me. The contract extension ahead of schedule is a mark of confidence for me," Arnold said.

The midfielder played for nearly all Germany's youth teams before he earned his first call up into the senior team in May 2014. He made one appearance in a friendly against Poland (0-0).

"We are pleased to have agreed on a long-term contract with Maximilian Arnold, a key player and role model for our supporters. He is, together with Robin Knoche, the best example how successfully our youth academy works," Wolfsburg sporting director Klaus Allofs added.

Wolfsburg, who occupy the 8th place in the standings, encounter front-runners Bayern Munich at the 23rd round in Bundesliga on Saturday. Endit