Spain U-21 manager's confession about Mendoza: "He's one of my weaknesses, don't tell anyone"

Spain U-21 manager David Gordo praised Atlético midfielder Rodrigo Mendoza as a "tremendous player" and admitted he is one of his "weaknesses" ahead of upcoming fixtures.

Spain U-21 manager David Gordo has expressed his admiration for Atlético Madrid midfielder Rodrigo Mendoza, calling him a "tremendous player" with "spectacular" technical ability. Gordo selected Mendoza alongside fellow Atlético player Salvi Esquivel for the U-21 squad and highlighted the midfielder's versatility in midfield.

"From Rodrigo I always expect him to be Rodrigo. He has a spectacular level, he's a tremendous player. He's one of my weaknesses, don't tell anyone," Gordo said in a press conference. The manager praised Mendoza's game interpretation and completeness, noting he can play as a six, eight, or closer to goal depending on the situation.

Mendoza faces competition from other midfielders including Thiago Pitarch, Marc Bernal and Chema Andrés. Gordo acknowledged the quality across his squad but expressed hope that Mendoza, who has played only 48 minutes in Atlético's last three matches, will perform better with increased playing time.