2026-02-15, 08:53 PM - Word count:
Stockholm, Sweden
Life in Stockholm has started slower than João Mendes would've liked. With the first five games of the academy season over and done with, the Portuguese wonderkid has been taking longer than expected to settle into his new club. Although he is adjusting well to his transition to a new country, the performances on the pitch have left a lot to be desired. The academy boasts the best prospects in the world, an early reality check for Mendes, who is struggling to show his qualities against stiff competition.
Stockholm had two heavy defeats to start the season, losing 6-0 to Adowa Accra FC and 4-0 to Atlético. The results have been positive since, beginning with a 4-2 win over Sydney City, followed by two draws against PS Jakarta and Victoria Falls. Mendes, who has primarily been deployed as a deeper ball-winning midfielder, has one assist and 3 key passes. Worrying signs for the youngster, who was touted for his valiant efforts at goal and killer passes in the final third.
The training ground is going to become Mendes' home for the next few weeks. He's looking to improve his physical attributes, particularly his pace and acceleration, as he is being overrun in midfield in most games. He is going to take the time to work with his midfield partner, Cody Maverick, to gain chemistry and gel on and off the pitch.
Stockholm takes on Port Royal F.C. and İstanbul F.K. in their next two fixtures, a chance for Mendes to get another 180 in his legs and gain back the confidence he has been lacking.
Life in Stockholm has started slower than João Mendes would've liked. With the first five games of the academy season over and done with, the Portuguese wonderkid has been taking longer than expected to settle into his new club. Although he is adjusting well to his transition to a new country, the performances on the pitch have left a lot to be desired. The academy boasts the best prospects in the world, an early reality check for Mendes, who is struggling to show his qualities against stiff competition.
Stockholm had two heavy defeats to start the season, losing 6-0 to Adowa Accra FC and 4-0 to Atlético. The results have been positive since, beginning with a 4-2 win over Sydney City, followed by two draws against PS Jakarta and Victoria Falls. Mendes, who has primarily been deployed as a deeper ball-winning midfielder, has one assist and 3 key passes. Worrying signs for the youngster, who was touted for his valiant efforts at goal and killer passes in the final third.
The training ground is going to become Mendes' home for the next few weeks. He's looking to improve his physical attributes, particularly his pace and acceleration, as he is being overrun in midfield in most games. He is going to take the time to work with his midfield partner, Cody Maverick, to gain chemistry and gel on and off the pitch.
Stockholm takes on Port Royal F.C. and İstanbul F.K. in their next two fixtures, a chance for Mendes to get another 180 in his legs and gain back the confidence he has been lacking.
Quote:265 words
