María Méndez Fernández is a talented Spanish footballer known for her composure, tactical intelligence, and leadership as a centre back. As a key player for Real Madrid and the Spain women’s national team, she is establishing herself among the elite defenders in Liga F.
Early Life and Football Beginnings
Born on April 10, 2001, in Oviedo, Spain, María Méndez began her football journey with Oviedo Moderno’s youth teams at age 13. She made her senior debut at 15 and became a regular in Oviedo’s first team, developing her skills as both a midfielder and a defender. Her leadership and performances earned her the nickname “Pecas” (“freckles”) and recognition as a club captain and legend.
Club Career: From Oviedo to Real Madrid
Oviedo Moderno / Real Oviedo
Méndez played for Oviedo Moderno’s B and senior teams, helping the club win their Segunda División group and reach promotion playoffs. She was honored at the Estadio Carlos Tartiere after winning the U-17 World Cup with Spain.
Deportivo La Coruña
In 2019, she joined Deportivo La Coruña, making 20 league appearances and scoring 4 goals in her debut top-flight season.
Levante UD
From 2020 to 2024, Méndez starred for Levante, making 88 league appearances and scoring 6 goals. She helped Levante finish third in the league, qualify for the Champions League, and reach the Copa de la Reina final, where she scored twice in the quarterfinals. She was also named one of the team’s captains.
Real Madrid
In 2024, Méndez signed with Real Madrid, wearing the number 14 shirt. She quickly became a regular starter, adding solidity and leadership to the back line and scoring her first goal for the club within her first few appearances.
International Career: World Cup Winner and Senior International
Méndez has represented Spain at every youth level, playing a key role in the U17 team that won both the UEFA Women’s Under-17 Championship and the 2018 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup. She made her senior debut for Spain in November 2022 and has since earned 6 caps and scored 2 goals, including a Nations League goal against Switzerland and a Euro qualifier against the Czech Republic.
Career Milestones & Special Achievements
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FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup winner (2018)
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UEFA Women’s Under-17 Champion (2018)
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Over 110 senior club appearances by age 24
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Copa de la Reina finalist and Champions League qualifier with Levante
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Senior Spain international with 2 goals in 6 caps
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Regular starter for Real Madrid since 2024
Méndez is praised for her tactical awareness, aerial ability, and composure under pressure.
Style of Play
María Méndez is a modern centre back—strong in the air, intelligent in positioning, and comfortable playing out from the back. Her leadership and calmness make her an organizer in defense and a threat on set pieces.
Endorsements, Salary, and Earnings
As a regular starter for Real Madrid and an international, Méndez earns a competitive salary for Liga F standards and is positioned for further endorsements as her profile rises.
Personal Life
Méndez is the younger sister of Miguel Méndez, a former player and coach at Real Oviedo. She is known for her professionalism, humility, and positive influence in the dressing room.
FAQs About María Méndez
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What position does María Méndez play?
She is a centre back, and has also played as a midfielder. -
Which clubs has María Méndez played for?
Oviedo Moderno/Real Oviedo, Deportivo La Coruña, Levante UD, and Real Madrid. -
What are María Méndez’s top achievements?
FIFA U-17 World Cup winner, UEFA U-17 Champion, Copa de la Reina finalist, and over 110 senior club appearances. -
How many goals has María Méndez scored for Spain?
2 goals in 6 senior caps as of April 2024. -
When did María Méndez join Real Madrid?
In 2024.
Conclusion
María Méndez’s rise from Oviedo’s youth ranks to Real Madrid and the Spain national team showcases her talent, intelligence, and determination. As she continues to develop, Méndez is poised to become one of the leading centre backs in Spanish and European football.
