For fans in the UK, or Ireland for this writer, Mendieta appeared out of nowhere in 1999 and quickly rose to prominence as one of Europe’s most intriguing players.
Though it wouldn’t last long, his peak was quite the accomplishment. Every week there is a game, we shall examine a Champions League cult figure in honor of the airing highlights of the league this season.
When the internet was just getting started, there was no social media, no satellite television, and the only way to find international talent was to watch major competitions like the Champions League on free television.
Mendieta was in his mid-20s when Valencia became the talk of the town for two years.
The Basque playwright oversaw Los Che, the team led by Hector Cuper, in 1999–2000. The elegant midfielder scored important goals, made crucial passes, and slipped past opponents with his hair flying in the wind.
In addition to having a long-range rocket of a shot and fast feet that allowed him to evade opponents, he could play both centrally and on the wing. All in all, the perfect aggressive midfield player.
Other standouts on the squad included Argentina attacker Claudio Lopez, future Barcelona midfielder Gerard, France full-back Jocelyn Angloma, and Spain goalkeeper Santiago Canizares.
After advancing through the qualifying stage, Valencia went undefeated to win their group, which included Bayern.
