Portugal’s time at UEFA Euro 2024 ended on Friday following a loss in a penalty kick shootout to France. Still, this doesn’t diminish the form that Paris Saint-Germain left-back Nuno Mendes displayed.
Mendes played the entire match and converted his penalty kick in the shootout. However, his efforts weren’t enough, and now Portugal might have to turn the page on the Cristiano Ronaldo era unless he’s keen on playing at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Squawka highlighted a stat on Saturday regarding the most tackles made at Euro 2024. Mendes finished in ninth place for this stat with 13 tackles made by the 22-year-old.
Moreover, the defender was in excellent company for this stat as the PSG standout joins the likes of Arsenal’s Declan Rice (16) and Barcelona’s Jules Koundé (14), who are among the top players in tackles made at the tournament.
Ferdi Kadıoğlu was incredible at #EURO2024
He made more tackles (18) than any other player, while only two players won more duels than the full-back (35).
He was also a huge threat going forward, creating 12 chances with 100% of them coming from open play. 😍@bet365 | #Ad pic.twitter.com/kI8LzT5UHZ
— Squawka (@Squawka) July 6, 2024
If Mendes remains healthy, he will be part of Portugal’s present and future. This 2024-25 season could be a confidence booster as the Portugal international aims to establish himself as one of the best left-backs in football.