Monza tie down Senegal's AFCON winner Balde

Monza's Keita Balde celebrates after scoring the 2-1 lead during the Italian soccer Serie A match between Udinese Calcio and AC Monza at the Bluenergy Stadium stadium in Udine, Italy, 11 May 2025. EPA/Ettore Griffoni

by Austin Ditlhobolo

Friday Jun 06, 2025. 13:00

Senegal international Keita Balde has extended his stay at Italian outfit Monza following the conclusion of the 2024/25 Serie A season.

The 30-year-old joined Monza in February 2025, signing a deal that was set to expire at the end of the recent campaign, and he became a key player for the team.

Balde, who was part of the Senegal squad that clinched the 2021 AFCON title, scored twice in 11 matches in Serie A for Monza, but couldn’t help the team avoid relegation from the Italian top tier.

“AC Monza announces that it has extended the contract for the sporting performances of Keita Balde until 30 June 2027,” a club statement read.

“Having arrived in Brianza last February, the striker has made 11 appearances and scored 2 goals for the red and whites, standing out for his talent and personality on and off the pitch.

“The adventure together continues, congratulations Keita.”

Balde, who was nurtured in the FC Barcelona academy in Spain, will be looking to help Monza clinch the Serie B title in the 2025/26 season and secure promotion back to the top flight.