Mendes can also play at centre-half
At 6ft, the Portuguese defender does have a physical presence about him despite his young age. He is undoubtedly more comfortable playing as a fullback or a wingback and would fit perfectly into Mikel Arteta’s system if the Spaniard plays three at the back.
However, despite his lack of experience, Mendes also played a full 90 minutes at centre-back in the 1-0 win against Santa Clara back in July. He didn’t put a foot wrong as he helped keep a clean sheet.