Rise to Success: Career Highlights of Nuno Mendes (footballer, born 2002)

How Nuno Mendes (footballer, born 2002) built a successful career. Explore key moments that defined the journey.

Nuno Mendes is a Portuguese professional footballer excelling as a left-back. Born in 2002, he currently plays for Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) in Ligue 1. Mendes is also a member of the Portugal national team, representing his country in international competitions. Known for his pace, technique, and attacking prowess from the left-back position, he is considered one of the most promising young talents in European football.

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Full Timeline Career & Achievements

September 2002: Youngest player in Sporting CP's starting XI since Ronaldo

In September 2002, Nuno Mendes, at 18, became the youngest player to make Sporting CP's starting XI since Ronaldo.

June 2020: Professional debut for Sporting CP

On June 12, 2020, Nuno Mendes made his professional debut for Sporting CP in a Primeira Liga match against Paços de Ferreira.

September 2020: Debut for Portugal U21

In September 2020, Nuno Mendes debuted for Portugal's under-21 team.

December 2020: Contract extension with Sporting CP

On December 19, 2020, Nuno Mendes agreed to a contract extension, increasing his buyout clause.

2020: Becoming first choice at Sporting CP

In 2020, Nuno Mendes became the first choice at Sporting CP.

2020: First-team debut and Primeira Liga title with Sporting CP

In 2020, Nuno Mendes debuted with Sporting CP, winning the Primeira Liga and Taça da Liga the following season.

2020: Selected for the Euro 2020

In 2020, Nuno Mendes was chosen in the squad for the Euro.

March 2021: Senior debut for Portugal

On March 24, 2021, Nuno Mendes made his senior debut for Portugal in a World Cup qualifying match against Azerbaijan.

July 2021: Supertaça Cândido de Oliveira win

On July 31, 2021, Nuno Mendes provided an assist in the Supertaça Cândido de Oliveira, leading to Sporting CP's victory.

August 2021: Loan to Paris Saint-Germain

In August 2021, Nuno Mendes moved to Paris Saint-Germain on loan.

August 2021: Joined Paris Saint-Germain on loan

On August 31, 2021, Nuno Mendes joined Paris Saint-Germain on a season-long loan with an option to buy.

2021: Full debut for Portugal

In 2021, Nuno Mendes made his full debut for Portugal.

2021: Playing for Portugal U21

Nuno Mendes played for Portugal U21 in 2021 UEFA European Championship qualifiers.

May 2022: Permanent contract with Paris Saint-Germain

On May 31, 2022, Nuno Mendes' buyout clause was triggered, and he signed a permanent four-year contract with Paris Saint-Germain.

June 2022: Permanent move to Paris Saint-Germain

In June 2022, Nuno Mendes joined Paris Saint-Germain permanently for €38 million.

November 2022: World Cup squad and injury

In November 2022, Nuno Mendes was named in the squad for the World Cup but missed the rest of the competition due to a thigh injury.

2022: World Cup qualifying matches

In 2022, Nuno Mendes was called up to the senior team for 2022 FIFA World Cup qualifying matches.

2022: Selected for the 2022 World Cup

In 2022, Nuno Mendes was chosen in the squad for the World Cup.

2024: Euro 2024 Participation

During qualifying for Euro 2024, Mendes made one appearance against Luxembourg, assisting Cristiano Ronaldo's opening goal. He also played in the finals in Germany, starting in multiple matches.

2024: Continental treble with Paris Saint-Germain

In 2024, Nuno Mendes was a prominent player as Paris Saint-Germain attained a continental treble, including their first-ever UEFA Champions League title.

2024: Selected for the Euro 2024

In 2024, Nuno Mendes was chosen in the squad for the Euro.

February 2025: Contract extension and Champions League goal

In February 2025, Nuno Mendes extended his contract with PSG until 2029 and scored in the Champions League.

2025: UEFA Nations League Finals

In 2025, Nuno Mendes played in the UEFA Nations League Finals, assisting a goal against Germany and scoring against Spain, ultimately winning the tournament and being named player of the match and best player of the tournament.