Jorge Mendes Encourages Young Players to Emulate Ronaldo and Messi
In a recent interview with A Bola, renowned agent Jorge Mendes discussed his unique approach to mentoring young football players. He frequently asks them a pivotal question regarding their aspirations.
“Normally, I talk to my players and say to them: ‘Do you want to be like Cristiano Ronaldo or Messi off the field too, or do you want to be…?’ I won’t name names, but that’s the difference,” Mendes stated.
He continued, “I consider myself very privileged. Cristiano is the best player in the history of world football and, at the same time, the best example off the field. This is the model we should transmit to children.”
Mendes emphasizes that true greatness extends beyond performance in matches. It involves discipline, habits, and professionalism outside of the field.
By invoking the names of Ronaldo and Messi, Mendes is not merely highlighting raw talent but also prompting players to consider the lifestyle and mindset necessary to achieve such heights.
Jorge Mendes Advocates for Opportunity Over Talent
Mendes also addressed the critical role of the right opportunities in a player’s development. He noted that even highly talented individuals can falter if they find themselves in unsuitable environments early in their careers.
“Many times we don’t choose the biggest club, but the place where they would play and grow. Going to a lower division can be better if you get minutes. Without opportunities, talent is useless,” he explained.
“Many players get lost because they don’t have the right context. They go a year or two without playing, and it seems like they’re not good, but the problem isn’t talent, it’s opportunity,” the super-agent concluded.
This outlook has been shaped through years of overseeing elite careers. Mendes has witnessed how quickly a player’s development can plateau when they prioritize status over playing time.
This ties back to his earlier message: emulating Ronaldo or Messi entails more than skill; it demands consistent, sound decision-making.
For young players, this might mean temporarily stepping away from high-profile clubs to forge a successful and sustainable long-term career.