EPL
Jorge Mendes’ Elite Squad: 10 Top Players Under His Representation
The world of football is profoundly influenced by powerful agents like Jorge Mendes, who shape the careers of the sport’s most promising talents.
Jorge Mendes, a name that resonates with footballing success, has assembled an impressive roster of clients who have risen to become some of the biggest stars in the game.
Mendes’ journey as an agent began in 1996 when he facilitated his first deal, assisting Nuno Espírito Santo in moving from Vitória de Guimarães to Deportivo de La Coruña.
Since then, his agency, GestiFute, has emerged as a powerhouse in the football world, representing some of the most gifted players across Europe.
Jorge Mendes’ talent for identifying young prospects and his strategic approach to player management have established him as a pivotal figure in the industry. His clientele includes not only football legends like Cristiano Ronaldo but also emerging stars who are leaving their mark on the sport.
Mendes’ skill in securing lucrative contracts and navigating intricate transfer negotiations has solidified his reputation as one of the top agents in the business.
In this article, we will delve into ten of Jorge Mendes’ standout players, each of whom has made significant contributions to their teams and the sport overall. From Lamine Yamal to Alejandro Blade, these players embody the future of football and the lasting impact of Mendes’ influence in the game.
1. Lamine Yamal
Jorge Mendes became Lamine Yamal’s agent in April 2023 when he reportedly paid Yamal’s father €3 million to secure the representation.
Mendes, known for managing top football talents like Cristiano Ronaldo, saw Yamal’s potential and decided to invest in his future.
Since Jorge Mendes took over, Yamal’s career has skyrocketed. He won the 2024 Golden Boy award and was named the Best Emerging Player at the Globe Soccer Awards.
Mendes has been instrumental in negotiating Yamal’s contract extensions and ensuring he stays at Barcelona.
Mendes’ influence has also helped Yamal gain recognition as one of the best young players globally, with comparisons to Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo.
Jorge Mendes’ guidance and connections have undoubtedly played a significant role in Yamal’s rapid rise and promising future in football.
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2. Ansu Fati
Jorge Mendes became Ansu Fati’s agent in the summer of 2023. Mendes, known for his extensive network and influence in football, saw potential in Fati and decided to represent him. This move was part of Mendes’ strategy to expand his roster of young talents.
Since Mendes took over, Fati’s career has seen some challenges. Fati has struggled with injuries and has been out of favor at Barcelona.
Mendes has been working to find a suitable move for Fati, but the player’s desire to stay at Barcelona has complicated negotiations.
Despite these challenges, Mendes continues to advocate for Fati’s future, believing in his talent and potential to overcome adversity.
Mendes’ impact on Fati’s career is a mix of navigating difficult situations and maintaining belief in Fati’s abilities.
His influence and connections in the football world are crucial as Fati seeks to regain his form and secure a stable future in the sport.
3. Bernardo Silva
Jorge Mendes became Bernardo Silva’s agent in 2017 when Silva transferred from AS Monaco to Manchester City.
Mendes, known for his extensive network and influence in football, was instrumental in negotiating the deal.
Since then, Mendes has continued to manage Silva’s career, helping him secure lucrative contracts and endorsements.
Under Mendes’ guidance, Silva has flourished at Manchester City, winning multiple Premier League titles and individual awards.
Mendes has also been involved in ongoing negotiations for Silva’s potential move to Barcelona, reflecting his commitment to advancing Silva’s career.
Mendes’ impact on Silva’s career is evident in his consistent performance and the opportunities he has been given to play for top clubs.
4. Joao Felix
Jorge Mendes became João Félix’s agent in 2019 when Félix transferred from Benfica to Atlético Madrid for a record fee of €127 million.
Mendes, renowned for his ability to spot and nurture young talents, saw Félix’s potential and took him under his wing.
Since then, Mendes has been instrumental in managing Félix’s career, securing lucrative contracts and endorsements.
Under Mendes’ guidance, Félix has experienced both highs and lows. He won the Golden Boy award in 2019 and has been a key player for Atlético Madrid. However, Félix has also faced challenges, including injuries and inconsistent form.
Mendes continues to work on finding the best opportunities for Félix, ensuring his client’s career remains on an upward trajectory.
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5. Ruben Dias
Ruben Dias, the rock-solid center-back for Manchester City, has become one of the best defenders in the world.
Known for his leadership, tackling, and aerial ability, Dias has been a game-changer for City’s defense.
Mendes, who recognized Dias’s potential early on, facilitated his move from Benfica to Manchester City.
Dias’s impact was immediate, and he played a crucial role in City’s Premier League and Champions League campaigns.
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6. Manuel Ugarte
Jorge Mendes became Manuel Ugarte’s agent in the summer of 2023 when Ugarte transferred from Fenerbahçe to Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) for €50 million.
Mendes, known for his keen eye for talent and extensive network, saw Ugarte’s potential and decided to represent him.
Since then, Mendes has been instrumental in managing Ugarte’s career, securing lucrative contracts and endorsements.
Under Mendes’ guidance, Ugarte has quickly adapted to the high-intensity environment at PSG and has become a key player in their midfield.
Mendes’ influence has also helped Ugarte gain recognition as one of the best young midfielders in Europe.
His connections and negotiation skills have ensured that Ugarte continues to receive opportunities to play for top clubs and compete in prestigious tournaments.
Jorge Mendes played a crucial role in facilitating Manuel Ugarte’s transfer to Manchester United.
Mendes’ impact on Ugarte’s career is evident in his rapid rise and promising future in football.
7. Leny Yoro
Jorge Mendes became Leny Yoro’s agent in early 2024. Mendes, known for his ability to spot and nurture young talents, saw Yoro’s potential and decided to represent him.
Since then, Mendes has been instrumental in managing Yoro’s career, securing lucrative contracts and endorsements.
Under Mendes’ guidance, Yoro has continued to excel at LOSC Lille, making 24 appearances and scoring three goals.
Mendes’ influence has also helped Yoro gain recognition as one of the best young defenders in Europe.
His connections and negotiation skills have ensured that Yoro continues to receive opportunities to play for top clubs and compete in prestigious tournaments.
In the summer of 2024, Mendes played a crucial role in Yoro’s transfer to Manchester United. Mendes facilitated negotiations between the clubs and helped secure a deal worth €70 million.
This move to Manchester United marks a significant step in Yoro’s career, providing him with the opportunity to play in the Premier League and further develop his skills under the guidance of one of the world’s top clubs.
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8. Trincao
Jorge Mendes became Francisco Trincao’s agent in 2022 when Trincao transferred from Barcelona to Sporting CP on loan, with an option to buy.
Mendes, known for his extensive network and influence in football, saw Trincao’s potential and decided to represent him.
Since then, Mendes has been instrumental in managing Trincao’s career, securing lucrative contracts and endorsements.
Under Mendes’ guidance, Trincao has posted impressive stats at Sporting CP, with 6 goals and 10 assists in 25 appearances across all competitions this season.
Mendes’ influence has also helped Trincao gain recognition as one of the most promising young wingers in Europe.
His connections and negotiation skills have ensured that Trincao continues to receive opportunities to play for top clubs and compete in prestigious tournaments.
9. Bradley Barcola
Jorge Mendes, the renowned Portuguese agent who founded Gestifute in 1996, represents Bradley Barcola, a young and talented French footballer.
Barcola, a promising striker for Olympique Lyon, switched agents to Mendes, seeking better career opportunities and guidance. Since taking over as Barcola’s agent, Mendes has had a significant impact on his career.
Mendes leveraged his extensive network and connections in Paris to secure a chance for Barcola to play for Paris Saint-Germain (PSG).
This potential transfer highlighted Barcola’s rising profile and Mendes’ ability to place his clients in top clubs.
Additionally, Mendes held talks with AC Milan about a potential deal for Barcola, further demonstrating his commitment to advancing Barcola’s career.
Mendes’ influence has opened doors for Barcola, providing him with opportunities to compete at the highest levels of European football and ensuring his continued development as a top young talent.
10. Alejandro Blade
Jorge Mendes became Alejandro Balde’s agent and has since had a significant impact on his career.
Mendes, renowned for his expertise and influence in football, has helped Balde solidify his position at Barcelona.
Mendes has publicly stated that Balde is committed to Barcelona, and the club made the right decision by not selling him.
His connections and negotiation skills have ensured that Barcelona rejected offers from some of the best clubs in Europe, keeping Balde as a key player for the team.
Mendes’ influence has not only retained Balde at Barcelona but has also elevated his profile. Mendes has confidently stated that Balde has the potential to become the best left back in the world.
Under Mendes’ guidance, Balde continues to develop and shine, with his career trajectory showing great promise thanks to Mendes’ strategic management and support.
Jorge Mendes’ ability to spot and nurture talent has made him one of the most influential agents in football. His strategic approach to player management and knack for securing lucrative deals have helped his clients reach new heights in their careers.
The ten players mentioned above are a testament to Mendes’ expertise and influence in the world of football. As these players continue to develop and make their mark on the sport, Mendes’ legacy as a top football agent remains firmly intact.
