Who is Edgar Mendez, the Spanish winger set to join Bengaluru FC?

Quietly yet efficiently Bengaluru FC have been gearing up for the upcoming season with some quality signings. If widespread reports are to be believed, the latest addition to their already-stacked squad is Spanish winger Edgar Antonio Mendez Ortega.

According to the Times of India's Marcus Mergulhao, the 34-year-old's move to Bengaluru FC is a done deal. But who's Edgar Mendez? Let's look at the winger's career who was once on the radar of Arsenal and Everton.

Edgar Mendez started his career with CD Tenerife and Real Madrid

The Tenerife-born forward started his footballing journey in the youth setups of CD Tenerife and Real Madrid, where he readily made a name for himself with his speed and skill on the wings. However, it wasn't until the 2008-09 season that he made his senior debut for Los Blancos' C team in the Tercera Division.

Mendez became a starter at Almería, where his standout performances in La Liga and the Segunda División didn't go unnoticed, and earned a four-year deal to Granada in 2015. However, his time at the club was underwhelming.

Edgar Mendez helps Deportivo Alaves script Copa del Rey history

The highlight of his career came during his time at Deportivo Alaves, where he was instrumental in their historic run to the Copa del Rey final during the 2016-17 season. Mendez scored the only goal of the semi-final second leg against Celta Vigo, helping the Basque club to qualify for the tournament finals for the first time in their 96-year history.

In 2020, he returned to Alaves after a brief spell away from Europe and cemented his status as a key player for the club.

Edgar Mendez makes his voyage to the Mexican shores

After his initial spell with Alaves, Mendez took his talents across the Atlantic to join Mexican giants Cruz Azul. Adapting quickly to the new football culture and system, he kept finding the back of the net and establishing his quality on the wings.

More recently, he had a spell with Mexican club Necaxa, where he slotted 12 goals in 59 appearances over two seasons.

What can Bengaluru FC fans expect from Edgar Mendez?

If Bengaluru FC can iron out the final details and secure the signature of Mendez, fans can expect to witness a player with a wealth of experience and a knack for creating goal-bound actions from thin air.

Known for his blistering speed, wily tricks on the flanks, and goalscoring ability, the veteran winger will add a spark to Bengaluru FC's attacking options. His versatility allows him to play on either wing or as an attacking midfielder, giving the coach plenty of tactical flexibility.

Beyond his on-field skills, Mendez's experience in top-flight European and Latin American football will be a huge asset to the Blues.