Arsenal scouts pursue Spain U20 star Rodrigo Mendoza – Discover who he is

Arsenal scouts are closely monitoring Spanish U20 star Rodrigo Mendoza, who has made a significant impact in his debut LaLiga season with Elche. This interest comes after his impressive performance over the past two years in the Segunda División.

Rodrigo Mendoza: A Rising Talent

Rodrigo Mendoza, now 20 years old, hails from Molina de Segura in the Murcia region of Spain. He began his football journey at local clubs such as EF Altorreal, EF San Miguel, and Ranero CF before joining Elche’s youth academy in 2019.

Career Progression at Elche

Mendoza debuted for Elche’s first team in November 2022 during a Copa del Rey match against CD L’Alcora. Over the next two seasons, he became a key player, amassing 44 league appearances and scoring two goals during his time in the Segunda División.

• 2021-22 Season: Joined Elche’s first team.
• 2022-23 Season: Elche relegated from LaLiga.
• 2023-24 Season: Finished 11th in Segunda División.
• 2024-25 Season: Elche secured runner-up position to Levante, achieving promotion.
• 2025-26 Season: Started strong in LaLiga with three wins, seven draws, and three losses in 13 matches.

International Performances

Mendoza has represented Spain at multiple youth levels, including the U17s, U19s, and U20s. He notably played in the recent FIFA U20 World Cup, contributing significantly to the team’s progression to the quarter-finals, where they were eliminated by Colombia. Mendoza assisted in Spain’s victory over Ukraine in the round of 16.

Arsenal’s Interest in Mendoza

As Arsenal scouts keep a close eye on Mendoza, there have been no formal offers to Elche as of yet. His playing style aligns with Mikel Arteta’s midfield strategy, particularly in a forward-thinking role. However, competition within Arsenal’s squad is fierce, with lots of talented players vying for limited positions.

Potential Role at Arsenal

If a transfer occurs, Mendoza could fit into roles traditionally occupied by players like Martin Ødegaard or Eberechi Eze. Given the existing depth in Arsenal’s midfield, including the likes of Declan Rice and Ethan Nwaneri, Mendoza would need to compete diligently for game time.

The combination of his technical skills and youth make him an appealing option for the Gunners. Should the club decide to pursue Mendoza in the upcoming winter transfer window, they may find a promising, yet cost-effective addition to their squad.

In conclusion, Rodrigo Mendoza’s continued growth at Elche and track record with the Spanish youth teams position him as a significant prospect in European football. Arsenal’s interest illustrates the potential for this young midfielder to make an impactful move in the near future.