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Nuno Mendes 2025 UEFA Nations League Player of the Finals: Why He’s the World’s Best Left-Back Right Now

From Nations League Assists to Champions League Glory: Mendes’ Rise to Global Stardom

image via - @selecaoportugal/ X

Portugal and Paris Saint-Germain left-back Nuno Mendes has had a breakout 2024/25 year. Guiding the Parisians to their first Champions League title, the 22-year-old has put in some prolific performances towards the end of the season.

Being a crucial part of the Portugal side since making his debut in 2021, Mendes was 18 years old coming through the ranks. Signing a long-term contract with PSG, the Portuguese is currently one of the most complete fullbacks in the football world.

World-class talent. Nuno Mendes. 🇵🇹🌟 pic.twitter.com/4hxHmGJswq
— Ligue 1 English (@Ligue1_ENG) June 8, 2025

Breakthrough at PSG: A Permanent Move and Rising Stardom

PSG completed the football treble following their comfortable victory over Inter Milan in the UCL final—Luis Enrique who became only the second manager to achieve trebles in two different leagues.

Enrique has highly praised Mendes for his 2024/25 season. Luis Enrique, PSG’s manager, described Nuno Mendes as a “fighter plane” in both attack and defence during press conferences in April 2025.

Scoring a goal in the finals of the Nations League, Mendes also provided five assists in Portugal’s run. Nuno Mendes, a key player for Paris Saint-Germain, recently extended the duration of their contract. The new contract, which came into effect on February 7, 2025, will last until June 30, 2029.

Mendes’ physical profile enables him to dominate both defensively and offensively, making him a dual-threat full-back. His speed and stamina allow him to cover the left flank relentlessly, while his height and strength ensure he can handle physical wingers.

The extension secures Mendes’ position in the young PSG side which is expected to achieve great things. Flourishing under Enrique, the Portuguese will also have a lot to improve given his young age.

Nations League

Nuno Mendes

Portugal

Mayur Dedwal

soccer

I’m a Sports Content Writer with expertise in football. Being a decade old football enthusiast and part-time coach, I try to bring to life to the articles in a statistical manner. Being around all kinds of sports updates and able to put in my perspective’s to the happenings in the world of football are few of the many things i like in doing what i do. You can find me playing Sunday leagues or Xbox on weekends!