Real Sociedad B announced on Wednesday the renewal of Álex Lebarbier's contract until the end of the 2027‑28 season, cementing the young French midfielder as a key piece of the reserve side's project.

What does the extension mean?

The official statement says Lebarbier, who will turn 22 next month, signed a deal that keeps him at the club through the summer of 2028. The 1.84 m player joined the academy as a youth and, in the 2025‑26 campaign, contributed at least one goal and three assists while helping Sanse secure its place in LaLiga Hypermotion.

Why is this important for the reserve team?

The renewal joins recent extensions for Álex Marchal, Unax Agote and Ibai Agirre, creating a core of players with mid‑term contracts. Moreover, the arrival of Japanese centre‑back Kazunari Kita, whose purchase option was exercised in June, strengthens the back line. With these moves, coaches Jon Ansotegi and Imanol Agirretxe now have a stable squad to start preseason in Zubieta.

What’s next for the Sanse?

The team will begin training on Thursday at Zubieta, with five and a half weeks of preparation before the league opener on August 16 against CD Castellón. Lebarbier, able to operate in several central midfield roles, will be a tactical reference for the manager, who has stressed the need for continuity to compete for top spots.

How does this affect the long‑term plan?

Keeping Lebarbier until 2028 allows the club to plan the transition of reserve players to the first team with greater certainty. He has already been monitored by the senior coaching staff and, according to internal sources, could be listed for training with the main squad next season. The extension also signals to fans that the club is committed to continuity and internal development.

With the contract signed, Real Sociedad B enters the season with a balanced roster and several young talents on multi‑year deals, ready to meet the demands of LaLiga Hypermotion and potentially make the jump to Spain’s top tier.