✍️ Ilmari Niskanen pens contract extension

We are delighted to announce that Ilmari Niskanen has signed a one-year contract extension to commit his stay at SJP until at least the end of the 2025/26 season.

The 26-year-old already has an existing year remaining on his contract, but has opted to commit his future to the Grecians to a further year having enjoyed his first season in England.

Niskanen joined the club last summer from Dundee United and has made 35 appearances in all competitions for City, registering four assists, as well as making four international appearances for his native Finland.

He was also awarded the club's PFA Community Champion award, alongside City Women's Bow Jackson, for his involvement in several club and community initiatives across his first season. 

On signing the extension, Ilmari said: "I'm extremely happy to be a Grecian for an extended period of time and I have loved my time in Exeter so far. I know there's still a lot more to come, both personally and as a team.

"I strongly believe that the next seasons can be very successful for this football club, that was one of the main reasons for committing at least a year longer as I really want to help the team to achieve great things.

⁠"I can't wait to be back for pre-season and start the hard work again with fantastic team-mates and coaching staff... Hölökynkölökyn!"

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Manager Gary Caldwell added: "We are so happy that Ilmari has extended his contract with us. He has been excellent since he came to the club, as a person and a player.

"His character and work ethic are incredible and we want to build the team around people like Ilmari. His season was disrupted by his shoulder injury but that didn’t stop him contributing lots on the pitch. 

"He knows he has more to give and is working closely with Kevin Nicholson in developing his game and and this showed with his assists towards the end of the season. Next season I have no doubt this will only improve because of Imi's work ethic and determination to be the best player he can be."