VfB have extended Mirza Catovic’s contract, which was set to run until 30 June 2028, by a further year until 2029. At the same time, the 19-year-old, who made 29 appearances for the U21s in the 3. Liga last season, has completed a loan move to Spain, where the midfielder will play for the Barcelona reserve team.
Fabian Wohlgemuth, VfB board member for sport: “Over the past few years, Mirza has taken big strides on his journey from a youth player to a first-team footballer. After making numerous appearances in the 3. Liga last season, he now has an opportunity to gain further experience with Barcelona’s second team. We wish Mirza all the best for his time in Barcelona and will closely monitor his development.”
Four years at VfB
Catovic has worn the shirt with the red Brustring since July 2022, when he joined from the SG Rot-Weiß Frankfurt academy. He progressed through both the U17 and U19 teams, as well as featuring in the UEFA Youth League nine times. He made his debut for the U21s in the 3. Liga on 14 December 2024 at the age of just 17 years and seven months. Since then, Catovic has added a further 44 appearances in Germany’s third tier, scoring two goals and helping the side to avoid relegation in each of the last two seasons. He also won the junior DFB Cup with the U19s in May 2026.
Catovic has represented Germany U19s eight times, with four of those appearances coming at the European Under-19 Championship this summer, where the German youngsters claimed second place.
VfB wishes Mirza Catovic every success for the 2026/2027 season.
