Why Nuno Mendes Deserves to Make the Final Ballon d’Or List
Nuno Mendes may not be the biggest name at Paris Saint-Germain, but after his brilliant performances in both club and international football this season, it’s time we talk about why he deserves to be in the final Ballon d’Or shortlist.
In Sunday night’s Nations League final, Mendes helped Portugal beat Spain in a dramatic penalty shootout. He wasn’t just good—he was outstanding, once again showing he can handle the biggest games and the toughest opponents.
A Full-Back for the Modern Game
Mendes is the full package. He defends like an old-school left-back, tough and reliable. But he also attacks with speed and skill, helping his team push forward. Against Spain, he kept 17-year-old star Lamine Yamal quiet—no small task. Yamal had just impressed against France and looked ready to shine again. But Mendes was too smart, too fast, and too strong.
He even left Yamal behind in the build-up to Cristiano Ronaldo’s goal, showing the kind of explosive pace that defenders fear. Mendes also pulled off a clever drag-back earlier in the game, the kind of skill you usually expect from a winger or midfielder, not a defender.
Taking On the Best in Europe
It’s not just one great match. Mendes has been excellent all season. In the Champions League, he shut down Mohamed Salah of Liverpool, a player many consider one of the best wingers in the world. He also kept Bukayo Saka quiet when PSG faced Arsenal.
And he doesn’t just defend—he creates problems going forward too. His crosses, runs, and link-up play have made a huge difference for both club and country.
Overlooked No More
While PSG teammates like Achraf Hakimi, Ousmane Dembélé, and Gianluigi Donnarumma are often mentioned in Ballon d’Or talks, Mendes hasn’t had the same attention. That should change now. His performance against Spain in the final showed the world what he’s capable of.
At just 22 years old, he’s already playing like one of the best left-backs in football—and against the very best opponents.
The Big Picture
It’s easy to focus on attackers when thinking about awards like the Ballon d’Or. But players like Nuno Mendes prove that defenders can be match-winners too. He’s a major reason Portugal lifted the Nations League trophy and why PSG stormed to a 5-0 win over Inter Milan in the Champions League final.
It’s time the football world gave him the recognition he deserves.
Ballon d’Or voters, take note: Nuno Mendes deserves a place on that final list.
