Dnipro's Shakhtar has officially announced the signing of a new long-term contract with defender Valerii Bondar. According to Sport RBC.UA, citing the football club's official website, the new agreement between the parties runs until July 2031. In doing so, the club secures one of the key players in its defensive line, who was developed in its own academy.

Details of the New Agreement

Shakhtar and the 27-year-old defender have signed a new contract, with its term extended until July 2031. In the current season, Valerii Bondar has already made two appearances — in the matches against Kudrivka and Kharkiv. In both games the defender played the full 90 minutes, underscoring his status as a first-team regular. At the contract-signing ceremony, the player posed in the club's new signature kit, which featured the name "BONDAR" on the back.

Career in the "Miners'" System

Valerii Bondar is a product of the "miners'" academy. During his time at the club he progressed through all the youth-team levels, steadily improving in quality and ultimately earning a place in Shakhtar's first team. The defender made his debut for the senior side on 4 May 2019, after which he gradually became a regular element of Dnipro's defensive line.

Statistics and Trophies

Since his debut, Bondar has played 189 official matches for Shakhtar, scoring six goals and providing two assists. Together with the club, the 27-year-old defender has amassed a substantial collection of domestic trophies: he is a five-time Ukrainian champion, a two-time Ukrainian Cup winner, and a holder of the Ukrainian Super Cup. Beyond his club successes, Valerii has been regularly called up to the Ukrainian national team since 2020.

Player's Statement

Commenting on the signing of the new contract, Bondar expressed his attachment to the club. According to Sport.ua and ua-football.com, the defender stated: "A new contract? I want to stay at Shakhtar for my whole life," adding that "I would like to spend my entire life here." These words underscore the mutual trust between the player and the management of the Dnipro club.

Context and Prospects

Extending the agreement until 2031 is a signal of long-term trust from Shakhtar toward an academy graduate and a confirmation that the club views Bondar as part of its future. It was previously reported that the Dnipro club also signed the winner of the World Championship's "Silver Ball," indicating a consistent policy of strengthening the squad both through young players and through experienced reinforcements.