Maxwell compares PSG's Nuno Mendes to Brazilian legend Roberto Carlos
Former Paris Saint-Germain defender Maxwell has drawn comparisons between current left-back Nuno Mendes and Brazilian icon Roberto Carlos. The comments were made in an interview with French publication L'Équipe ahead of PSG's upcoming match against Liverpool, a fixture in which Mendes excelled last season.
Maxwell, who played for PSG between 2012 and 2017, analysed the Portuguese international's development, highlighting his power and modern style of play. "He has the power of Roberto Carlos and he is more defensive than him, but in the last 30 metres, he remains below," Maxwell stated, referencing the legendary Real Madrid full-back's famed attacking output. Maxwell also suggested Mendes's game is difficult to compare directly to past greats due to its contemporary nature.
The 22-year-old Mendes, who joined PSG permanently from Sporting CP in 2022 after an initial loan, has established himself as a key component of Luis Enrique's side. His blend of physicality, defensive solidity, and ability to contribute in the final third has made him one of the most highly regarded full-backs in European football. His performances were pivotal in PSG's run to the Champions League semi-finals last term.
In his assessment, Maxwell also referenced other legendary full-backs while pinpointing Mendes's unique attributes. "Nuno is less technical than Marcelo but more powerful," he said, comparing him to another Brazilian great. Maxwell concluded that apart from Dani Alves at Barcelona and Philipp Lahm, he could not recall a full-back as fluid in construction, capable of operating both inside and outside. The praise comes at a time when Mendes is expected to be a central figure for PSG as they continue their pursuit of European success.
The timing of the comparison is notable, with PSG preparing to face Liverpool, a club with a long-standing admiration for the player's profile. While no transfer is currently indicated in the source material, such high-profile praise from a respected former player inevitably fuels discussion about Mendes's standing in the global market. For now, his focus remains on his continued development in Paris, where he is under contract until 2028.
Mendes's progression is seen as a testament to PSG's investment in young talent, and his modern skill set exemplifies the evolving role of the full-back. As Maxwell noted, the game is changing, with defenders now expected to be as decisive as attackers. Mendes's upcoming performances on the European stage will be the true test of whether he can sustain comparisons to the all-time greats of his position.
