Nuno Mendes has been called the world's best left-back by former player Moncef Zekri. The analysis was published this week and highlights the 24-year-old's development into a key figure for the Portugal national team.
Zekri, speaking to reporters, was unequivocal in his assessment of the Portuguese international. "Nuno Mendes has become the best left-back in the world here," stated the former athlete, emphasizing the defender's journey since his senior team debut.
How has Nuno Mendes developed?
Nuno Mendes's rise in international football has been remarkable. The player made his full Portugal debut in 2021 and quickly established himself as an undisputed starter. His ability to combine defensive solidity with attacking projection has made him a valuable asset for the national team's tactical scheme.
Data from our stats page shows his impact. Mendes has already played over 30 games for the Seleção, contributing decisive assists at key moments. His consistency throughout the 2026 World Cup qualifiers was one of the factors that secured Portugal's place in the tournament.
What is his importance to the tactical system?
Nuno Mendes's versatility allows for several tactical configurations. He can operate in both a four-defender system and a scheme with five at the back, offering width on the left flank. This flexibility is precious for the manager, who can adapt the team depending on the opponent.
In the current squad, visible on our squad page, Mendes shares the left flank with other talents, but his starting spot seems guaranteed when he is at optimal physical condition. His recovery from a prolonged injury in the 2024/25 season impressed observers, who saw a return of an even more complete player.
How does he compare to other elite full-backs?
Zekri's statement places Nuno Mendes above established names playing in Europe's top leagues. The former player's criteria is based not only on technical quality, but also on the consistency of performances in high-pressure games wearing the Portugal shirt.
| Player | Age | National Team | 2026 Caps |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nuno Mendes | 24 | Portugal | 8 |
| Theo Hernández | 28 | France | 10 |
| Andrew Robertson | 32 | Scotland | 9 |
| Alphonso Davies | 25 | Canada | 7 |
The table above, using data from our stats, compares the recent activity of elite left-backs. Mendes maintains a high competitive rhythm, essential for the World Cup's final stages.
What does this mean for the 2026 World Cup?
Having what is considered the world's best left-back is a significant advantage for Portugal at the World Championship. The group stage, which can be checked on our fixtures page, will present the Seleção with varied challenges where defensive solidity and the offensive capability of the full-backs will be tested.
Nuno Mendes's confidence is at the highest point of his career. The defender will arrive at the tournament with the experience of having been a pillar of the successful qualification campaign and with the maturity of a player who has already faced decisive stages at top clubs. His fitness will be closely monitored, as with all squad members, via our injuries page.
The next chapter of Nuno Mendes's career will be written on the pitches of North America. Opinions from experts like Moncef Zekri only confirm what Portuguese fans already suspected: they have in their ranks one of the world's best specialists in his position, ready to make a difference on the biggest stage.
