No one can match Nuno Mendes, says former Paris Saint-Germain player

In partnership with

Parisfans.fr

·20 September 2025

No one can match Nuno Mendes, says former Paris Saint-Germain player

Grégory Paisley, a 48-year-old former defender who notably played for Paris Saint-Germain (trained there, then professional from 1996 to 2001), was invited by Le Parisien to comment on the rise of Nuno Mendes (PSG’s 23-year-old left-back). He was very clear.

Paisley: “It was a turning point.”

“He’s the best left-back in the world. I don’t really see who else could be. In my opinion, no one rivals him today. It’s simple, I haven’t seen so many qualities since Marcelo at Real Madrid. A full-back this impactful, scoring goals, providing assists, and doing so in the biggest matches… He’s set to dominate his position for a decade. I’m glad PSG has him in their squad. He has improved tremendously on the defensive side. I think he had a wake-up call when Luis Enrique restricted him, letting Hakimi push forward constantly. He realized he needed to find that defensive discipline, otherwise he would have less freedom in the game. It was a turning point.”

It’s easy to be full of praise for Nuno Mendes today; he has undeniably reached a new level and regularly impresses. The Portuguese player is among the best in the world, no doubt. We’ll leave the debate for the top spot, which can be lengthy and also depends on one’s affection for a club or national team.

OneFootball Videos

The most interesting thing, as Paisley points out, is Mendes’ progression. This potential was clear from his arrival, even if some quickly doubted a player who was only 19. But coach Luis Enrique, with his staff, has greatly reduced his defensive issues and helped him grow tactically.

We remember the criticism that rained down when he was given a more cautious role in defense. But it brought balance to the team and pushed Mendes to improve defensively. The Portuguese player is now more complete, and the team has been able to work to allow him to push forward more and showcase his offensive qualities. All this, with a full-back who has refined his choices and execution of attacking moves.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇫🇷 here.