The future of Henrikh Mkhitaryan hangs in the balance like last summer, as his contract with Roma runs out in June. The Giallorossi eventually activated their option to add another year in 2021, but they will have to negotiate to keep him this time around.
The previous disagreements with José Mourinho that jeopardized his spot on the roster are distant memories. The Portuguese coach has constantly relied on him in multiple roles. The veteran has been one of the most consistent performers this season. According to Corriere dello Sport, the boss will ask the management to retain him.
The directors have postponed all talks related to potential contract extensions to the summer. Mkhitaryan had received offers for potential Bosman moves from Krasnodar and Spartak Moscow, which are clearly no longer viable, so Roma will have strong chances to come to terms quickly.
In the meantime, the midfielder has decided to stop playing for Armenia. He posted on Twitter: “After 95 appearances, all the hard work, passion, and the ups and downs along my long journey representing my country, I have decided to end my international career. I made the call after the game against Germany in November. This is the most appropriate time to do it, and I have given everything I could. I will focus exclusively on my clubs in the next few years.”
Mkhitaryan joined Roma from Arsenal in 2019, initially on loan and then on a free transfer. He has recorded 27 goals and 23 assists in 105 matches with the Giallorossi.