Mandzukic reportedly wants a contract extension without a raise

According to Calciomercato, Mandzukic is looking to extend his contract with Juventus without a pay raise. Super Mario is currently making close to $4 million per season with his contract set to expire in 2020.

He has been in phenomenal form since returning back from the World Cup. He has scored a goal in each of his two appearances for the Bianconeri against Lazio & Parma. With Higuain gone, he is now more likely to be placed in his natural striking position which is already bearing fruit.

Mandzukic is one of Juve’s most important players due to his incredible work rate, versatility and defensive output. Last season he was mostly used as a left midfielder/winger. For most Strikers, being put into this kind of role is a risk due to historically poor defensive output by strikers but that is not the case with Mandzukic. He is able to be involved in the build up phase, come back on defense and is able to do all the dirty work for Juve.

One of his biggest qualities is also showing up in important games. In this year alone, he scored twice in the second leg against Real Madrid in the UCL and scored in the World Cup final. He was a big factor in Juve’s close comeback against Los Blancos and helped Croatia to it’s first World Cup final. Simply amazing.

If he continues in his current form, I really hope his camp and Juventus agree on an extension. At 32 years old he’s definitely close to the end of his career but age aside, good performances is what matters most.

Forza Juve!