Rodrigo Mendoza returned to the Elche region this week after linking up with Spain’s under-18 squad for a tournament in Bursa, Turkey. La Roja faced Turkey, Portugal, and Romania and emerged as champions, underscoring Mendoza’s growing impact within the national youth setup.
The Franciverde midfielder quickly became a standout figure for the squad coached by Pablo Amo. He started the opener against Turkey, contributing to a 3-1 victory while playing most of the match before being substituted by Valencia CF’s Hugo de Mateo in the 90th minute. In the second match, the young Spaniards faced Portugal; Mendoza began on the bench and entered in the second half as Spain secured a 2-0 win, with Dani Rodríguez of FC Barcelona taking the field in the 78th minute. Mendoza finished the final game of the tournament, which was played this Monday, as Spain clinched the title with a convincing performance.
Through the tournament, Mendoza established himself as a regular within the Royal Spanish Football Federation’s youth structure. He had previously been part of the May U17 European Championship in Israel, where Spain was eliminated by Portugal in the quarterfinals, and has since earned a place in the U18 squad as part of his continued development.
The Murcian talent trained with Elche’s first team in pre-season at the invitation of Francisco, and despite his young age he has already become a fixture with the club’s subsidiary side under the guidance of Alberto Gallego and Nino. Last weekend he was not fielded in the RFEF Third Division clash against Ilicitano in Orihuela, where heavy rain at Altabix Sports City left the pitch unplayable. Returning from duty with the Spanish team, Mendoza will rejoin the Franjiverde setup and take part in the upcoming city derby against Athletics Club Torrellano.
Rodrigo Mendoza is viewed as a key asset for Elche, attracting attention from several strong clubs across Spanish football. He holds a contract with Elche through June 2025, and the club is hopeful he can progress to the first team in the near future as part of their long-term plans for homegrown talent. The confidence placed in him within the Franciverde ranks reflects a broader strategy to blend youth development with opportunities in the top squad, a path that could see Mendoza rise through the ranks in the next seasons.