Nuno Mendes is 21, so many wouldn’t think he’s influencing the next generation of players, considering the Portugal international part of that new wave. However, the way he plays football is causing other younger players to model their game after him.
FC Barcelona’s Alejandro Balde recently stated his admiration for the PSG player, stating that Mendes is one of the players that he admires.
“My role models? Alphonso Davies, Nuno Mendes, Theo Hernández and Jordi Alba,” Balde said.
🗣️🇪🇸| Alejandro Balde (Barça player): “My role models? Alphonso Davies, Nuno Mendes, Theo Hernández and Jordi Alba.” via @BarcaTimes pic.twitter.com/OM34nCQpQK
— PSG Report (@PSG_Report) September 5, 2023
Mendes is a quality left-back starter for PSG and the Portugal national team. Nonetheless, he’s yet to start this 2023-24 season coming off an injury. As a result, the capital club has Lucas Hernandez starting in Mendes’ position.
So it will be interesting to see how the situation plays out and whether the former Sporting CP star is ready for competition. Still, the French side does miss the pace and ability to win his duels on the left flank.
Regardless, having depth where Hernandez and Mendes can play the same position is an excellent problem.
