Loaned by Sporting CP with an option to buy, Nuno Mendes (19) will evolve this season with PSG. RMC Sport offers you a video analysis of the style of play and the characteristics of this great Portuguese contender in the left-back position.
Nuno Mendes, 19, left piston. It is quite possible that Paris Saint-Germain handled a major blow, by recruiting this great hope from Portuguese football in the closing hours of the summer transfer window. This loan with option to buy could contribute 50 million euros to Sporting CP. A colossal sum that is explained, in particular, by the good statistics of the player, with characteristics that respond to the demands of today’s football.
Strong in interceptions, less in placement
Without the ball, Nuno Mendes amazes with anticipation. With 60 interceptions, he ranked sixth among defenses in the Portuguese league last season. Analysis of his matches shows that these good defensive interventions are the result of his impressive speed.
Despite everything, Nuno Mendes duels like many other players of his genre. His defensive positioning also leaves something to be desired, although therefore he can compensate with his speed for the spaces he leaves behind. On the other hand, he cannot be credited with any errors leading to a goal in his 29 games in the Liga NOS.
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Very good technically
With the ball, PSG will be able to count on their good last pass quality. His crosses are excellent: 41 successful last season. This contrasts with the last occupants of the post in the Parisian team, since Juan Bernat’s long-term injury. In addition, Nuno Mendes is very strong in the progression with the ball. He has a 50% successful dribble, which is a pretty decent total at this position.
PSG has therefore hired a fast attacking full-back, technically very comfortable. However, be careful with the balance of the equipment. It also remains to be seen how this young player will behave in the face of the very tight low locks that Paris often faces in Ligue 1.
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