Édgar Méndez: Embracing New Challenges in Thailand After a Memorable Career

At 35 years old and with an extensive career behind him, Édgar Méndez (born January 2, 1990) is embarking on a new adventure in Thailand with Prachuap FC. Prior to his move to Asia, he made significant contributions in LaLiga, particularly during his time at Alavés, where he scored one of the most important goals in the club’s history, leading them to the Copa del Rey final against Barcelona. In a recent interview with MARCA, he reflects on his new football journey and his experiences in Spain.

**Q: How do you remember your time in Vitoria?**
**A:** “I experienced incredible moments in a city as passionate about football as Vitoria, where the fans are very welcoming and everything was quite pleasant. Alavés had a significant impact on my career and will always hold a special place in my heart. I arrived in a city that was hungry for football and eager to experience that season in the elite. Everything was spectacular.”

**Q: What does it feel like to score a goal like the one in the Copa semifinals?**
**A:** “I recall it was a very swift play. Camarasa flicked it on, and within moments I found myself in the box scoring. It’s a beautiful memory. I take pride in knowing that goal helped us qualify for the Copa final. Although I got injured right after scoring, we were able to experience the final and continue creating great memories.”

**Q: That goal came just three minutes after you entered the field. What do you attribute your goal-scoring ability to?**
**A:** “I’ve always been a player with a knack for scoring. It’s true that when you play as a winger, it’s harder, but when you’re positioned as a striker, you get more opportunities facing the goal. In that play, I was more central than on the wing. My intuition and belief that I will always have a chance is what gives me that goal-scoring instinct. To this day, I continue to generate opportunities and score.”

**Q: Did you approach the final feeling you could win against Barça, or did it seem too challenging?**
**A:** “It was incredible to see everything we achieved that season. Arriving at the final, one knows it will always be difficult, especially against a rival like Barça. But witnessing the Vicente Calderón in its last match, the 1-1 draw, and Theo’s stunning goal filled us with hope. That only made them angrier and made things tougher. Facing a historic Barcelona team with Messi, Neymar, and Iniesta was monumental for us. Just being in that final was a remarkable cherry on top of the great year we had. It will always remain in our memories.”

**Q: During your time at Alavés, you played alongside great talents like Marcos Llorente and Théo Hernández. What stands out about them?**
**A:** “We had a very strong group of young players. Marcos and Théo were clearly destined for great things, as their careers have shown. Marcos had an incredible personality for his age; he was only 22 yet always demanded the ball and dictated our rhythm. Theo was incredibly fast even at a younger age, with immense power and a great strike. It was a privilege to share a locker room with them. That team had no limits.”

**Q: You won several trophies in Mexico. Would you trade those for the Copa del Rey in 2017?**
**A:** “In terms of competitive value, I think I would, as the Copa del Rey is a top-tier title in Spain. You know how difficult it is to reach that final and face a Barcelona filled with world-class players. So yes, I would trade it. However, I also experienced wonderful moments and significant achievements in Mexico. I greatly enjoyed those trophies, but in terms of prestige, I believe the Copa del Rey carries more weight than the trophies I won. If you ask about the Liga championship in Mexico, that would make me hesitate, but regarding my overall trophies, I would indeed trade them for the Copa del Rey.”

**Q: What led you to Mexico on two occasions? What do you take away from your time at Cruz Azul and Necaxa?**
**A:** “I had Paco Jémez in Granada, where we developed a good relationship and friendship. When he moved to Mexico, we spoke about it, and I was convinced by what he said. Mexican football has been very positive for my life, opening doors to a beautiful country with very kind people. It has been an unforgettable experience, both at Cruz Azul, where I achieved great titles, and at Necaxa. Mexico has helped me grow as both a person and a footballer.”

**Q: Now you are exploring new adventures: Why India… and Tailand?**
**A:** “I wanted to play in Asia and experience football in countries with such different cultures. That’s why I decided to come here, where there is also a great passion for football. The support and affection from fans here helps you feel very welcomed.”

**Q: How do these exotic leagues differ from Spanish football?**
**A:** “While the level of competition is not as high, it is continually improving. More players from major leagues are arriving, which is noticeable in the game, although it remains more physical and less tactical compared to Spain. Playing for a title contender like Prachuap is a challenge that greatly motivates me. I will give my all to secure a title in Asian football.”

**Q: You are enjoying solid football, but what is it like to live in these countries?**
**A:** “My family and I are pleasantly surprised, very happy, and we would love to extend our stay here as we are thoroughly enjoying it. It’s a place we would like to spend several more years.”

**Q: You continue to score in Thailand. Does that push away thoughts of retirement?**
**A:** “Scoring goals doesn’t mean I’m moving away from retirement. Honestly, I’m in a moment where I’m enjoying everything. I feel great physically, I’ve found an incredible club with wonderful people. I’m very happy and comfortable in my city, and I have an amazing relationship with all my teammates and the coaching staff; the human quality here is among the best in my career. The president is also a wonderful person. I’m still performing well, so retirement is far from my mind. You never know, but I aim to extend my career for another two or three years if my body allows.”

**Q: Would you like to return to Spain, or what is the next step in your career?**
**A:** “Honestly, I don’t see myself returning to Spain in a footballing capacity, though I do plan to visit for vacations to see family and spend time with loved ones. But in terms of football, I believe my cycle in Spain has concluded. I think my future is in Thailand, where I hope to stay connected with the club and assist in its growth and improvement in all aspects. If I can contribute to helping younger players integrate into the team, I would be very happy to do so.”