Bayern Munich's Thiago pens two-year contract extension

MUNICH --

Spain midfielder Thiago Alcantara has extended his contract with Bayern Munich by two years until 2019.

Bayern chairman Karl-Heinz Rummenigge says ''we're happy that Thiago has decided to stay with Bayern for the long term. He's young and important player for the future of the club.

The 24-year-old Thiago, who joined Bayern from Barcelona for 25 million euros ($28.5 million) in 2013, has scored two goals and set up four more in 25 Bundesliga for the club. He missed more than a year with serious knee injuries before returning in April 2015.

He completed all of Bayern's pre-season campaign and came on as a substitute in both of the side's league games so far.

Thiago has made five appearances for Spain.