Spain 
Itzhak Perlman Headlines Great Neck Park District’s Summer Concert Series
3 hours ago
Gaizka Mendieta has transitioned from a highly decorated football athlete to a respected football pundit and entrepreneur.
Football legend Gaizka Mendieta was in Bulgaria at the invitation of Telematic Interactive within the partnership between Palms Bet and LALIGA.
Mendieta was sponsored by sportswear company Nike, and appeared in commercials for the brand. He starred in a "Secret Tournament" commercial (branded "Scorpion KO") directed by Terry Gilliam, appearing alongside footballers such as Luís Figo, Thierry Henry, Hidetoshi Nakata, Roberto Carlos, Ronaldinho, Ronaldo and Francesco Totti, with former player Eric Cantona the tournament "referee".
Gaizka Mendieta is a backer of a new paella-focused central London eatery, Arros QD.
Gaizka Mendieta is a backer of Mercado Central in Cambridge.
"Uno, Dos, Tres.." Our FIFA star partner Hibidi and former EPL player Gaizka Mendieta arm-wrestle and dab on our Secretlab chairs. Who will be the winner?
Gaizka Mendieta Zabala, born on March 27, 1974, in Bilbao, Spain, began his professional football career at a young age. He made his debut with CD Castellón in the Segunda División at 17, primarily playing as a full-back. In 1992, he moved to Valencia CF, spending his initial year with the reserves before making his first-team debut in June 1993. Mendieta’s career at Valencia saw significant progression, particularly after transitioning to a central midfield role under manager Claudio Ranieri in the 1997–98 season. He played 30 league matches, scoring ten goals, and subsequently made his debut for the Spanish national team. In June 1999, he secured his first major trophy with Valencia, winning the Copa del Rey. His performances further elevated in the 1999–2000 season under Héctor Cúper, helping Valencia win the Supercopa de España and reach the UEFA Champions League final in 2000 and 2001. He was recognized as the UEFA European Midfielder of the Season in both years, highlighting his impact and consistent high-level play. His time at Valencia established him as one of Europe’s premier midfielders, known for his versatility, technique, and offensive contributions.
In 2001, Mendieta moved to SS Lazio in Italy for a transfer fee of €47.7 million, making him one of the most expensive players at the time. After one season in Serie A, he was loaned to FC Barcelona for the 2002–03 season, where he was a regular starter. In 2003, he joined Middlesbrough in the Premier League, choosing the English club over offers from Spanish teams. Mendieta’s first season with Middlesbrough was marked by success, as he helped the team win the Football League Cup in 2003–04, securing the club’s first major silverware. His move to Middlesbrough was made permanent in July 2004. Towards the end of his career, Mendieta faced a series of injuries that limited his playing time, and he ultimately retired from professional football in 2008 after his contract with Middlesbrough expired. After retirement, he settled in Yarm and has pursued opportunities as a football pundit and entrepreneur, maintaining an active presence in the football world and beyond.
Curious about our offerings or have inquiries? We're eager to assist!
Just complete the form, and we'll respond promptly.
