Gaizka Mendieta
Midfield
WORLD LEGEND
Spain
Gaizka Mendieta about playing in the Legends Charity Game:
“This is a great event in the run-up to the 2030 World Cup and I look forward to coming back every year. It is a fantastic opportunity to raise money for people who are less fortunate than we are and who need all the help they can get at the moment.”
About
Gaizka Mendieta enjoyed a 16-year career playing across multiple countries including Spain, England and Italy as well as for the Spanish national team.
Known for his all-round game and versatility, he was a cultured midfielder and one with a high football IQ. At his best, he was recognised among the very best in his position in European football.
CAREER ACHIEVEMENTS
International Level
Scored two goals at Euro 2000 and one in the World Cup in 2002.
Club Level
Four major honours in total (three at Valencia and one at Middlesbrough). Won the Intertoto Cup, Copa del Rey and Supercopa de Espana - but also reached two Champions League finals in two years in 2000 and 2001. Part of Boro’s famed League Cup win in 2004 and was key in their run to the UEFA Cup final in 2006.
Personal Honours
4 major trophies with two teams and was crowned the Best Midfielder at the UEFA Club Football Awards.
INTERNATIONAL CAREER
Spain (1999-2002)
40 apps, 8 goals
Basque Country (1998-2007)
6 apps, 1 goal
CLUB HISTORY
Castellon (1992) 16 apps, 0 goals
Valencia B (1992-1994) 34 apps, 4 goals
Valencia (1993-2001) 230 apps, 44 goals
Lazio (2001-2004) 20 apps, 0 goals
Barcelona (Loan - 2002-2003) 33 apps, 4 goals
Middlesbrough (Loan - 2003-2004) 31 apps, 2 goals
Middlesbrough (2004-2008) 31 apps, 2 goals