Best in the world and it’s not even an argument | OneFootball

It’s rare for any footballer to be universally hailed as the best in the world in his position. PSG’s Portuguese left-back Nuno Mendes is that player.

Blessed with incredible athleticism, speed, vision and passing ability, it is as much his decision-making, always choosing the right option to maximise his offensive output and defensive solidity, that makes Mendes one of a kind.

Born in Sintra on the outskirts of Lisbon, Mendes has accumulated an incredible 5 straight domestic championships (1 for Sporting, 4 for PSG) in five full seasons as a professional footballer. He also picked up the small matter of a Champions League winner’s medal last season.

A few days after helping Paris annihilate Inter Milan in the final in Munich, he played a key role for his country at the same venue as Portugal won the Nations League, putting in two man-of-the-match performances against Germany and Spain.

In the final against the Spanish, Mendes scored a brilliant goal, shut down Lamine Yamal and dispatched his penalty in the shootout with aplomb.

Those achievements would be more than enough for a veteran to retire happy in the knowledge he has plenty to regale his grandchildren with when looking back on his career. But Nuno Mendes turned 23 years old three months ago. An authentic phenomenon.