FC Andorra Captain Nico Ratti Extends Contract Until 2029

FC Andorra captain Nico Ratti has extended his contract with the club for three more years, securing his place until 2029. The 35-year-old goalkeeper, a veteran since the team's days in Primera Catalana, described Andorra as home in a club video and voiced optimism about future achievements.

Coach Carles Manso hailed the renewal during Friday's pre-match press conference, calling Ratti a "key piece" in the dressing room and "an example for everyone." He emphasized the goalkeeper's influence on and off the pitch, especially in challenging periods, and said the team is "super proud" of his continued commitment.

The news arrives ahead of Sunday's 14:00 clash at Deportivo de la Coruña's Riazor stadium, where Andorra—with 58 points from 39 LaLiga Hypermotion matches—seek a win to surpass their 2022-23 record of 59 points set under Eder Sarabia. Currently 10th and assured of survival with play-off hopes all but gone, the side remains ambitious. Manso stressed that the team owes itself "respect for the work all season" and will compete fully despite the stakes. "We deserve to enjoy the category and a venue like Riazor with its atmosphere," he said, while committing to Andorra's style. "We won't change our game for anything."

Deportivo, second with 71 points and level with Almería, chase direct promotion and have gone 10 matches unbeaten. They will know Almería's result against Las Palmas before kickoff and need victory after the earlier 1-0 loss in Encamp on 20 December, sealed by Lautaro de León's stoppage-time strike. Manso described the hosts as a "team-oriented" and highly offensive unit, with standouts like Yeremay Hernández (11 goals, 9 assists), Eddahchouri (10 goals), and players who dominate possession and deliver crosses.

Manso anticipates a balanced contest with openings, given Deportivo's need to attack. A Riazor triumph would be the "cherry on top" of a strong campaign, building on the recent 5-1 home win over Las Palmas and an unbeaten away run since mid-February.

Lautaro returns from a five-match injury absence, excited to play in Galicia near family and against Celta Vigo's rivals, though his minutes hinge on training feedback. Olabarrieta is back from suspension, while Bomba is a doubt with knee issues but progressing. Out are Edgar, Jastin, Théo Le Normand (long-term knee injury—Manso offered support, saying "we won't let him down"), and Petxa (loan clause requires a €300,000 fee for him to feature).

Manso prioritizes meritocracy in selections to end well and bolster the Second Division project, regardless of next season's planning.