The turnaround in Chennaiyin FC’s fortunes and their subsequent surge to the 2015 Hero Indian Super League trophy coincided with a return to form for the robust French defender. The former Paris Saint-Germain, Bolton Wanderers and Hull City defender’s performances towards the business end of the last season were absolutely pivotal in the southern outfit’s coronation.
The veteran centre-back made 17 blocks, 22 interceptions, 34 tackles and 71 clearances for the Super Machans. Equally effective on the opposite end of the pitch, Mendy along with FC Goa’s Gregory Arnolin head into the upcoming season as Hero ISL’s highest scoring defenders with three goals each. While his bicycle-kick in the inaugural edition of the league against Kerala Blasters FC remains one of the highlights of his time with Chennaiyin, it can also be argued his two goals last season had even more impact when taking into consideration that his side were rock bottom halfway through the league stage.
Comfortable playing the ball out of defence, his passing accuracy of 87% last year was better than most midfielders in the league. His flamboyant style of play and consistency that saw him notch up a few important Hero-of-the-Match awards in the business end of the league stage last year has made him a firm fan favourite. Head coach Marco Materazzi can be safe in the knowledge that Mendy will once again be marshalling the Super Machans as they look to retain the title and concede the least number of goals for the second season running.
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