Nobel Mendy: “It’s a joy to earn debut Senegal call-up”

Rayo Vallecano defender Nobel Mendy has expressed joy over his debut call up to the Senegal national team.

The young player who can play at left-back and central defence, could not hide his happiness when the squad was announced by coach Pape Thiaw.

“It’s an immense joy. It’s been a dream of mine since I was little, ever since I started playing football.

“Honestly, I’m very happy. It feels good to make my family proud. It’s a dream come true. I used to watch them on TV and now I’ll be with them. That’s it.”

Nobel Mendy hails Rayo Vallecano boss

Nobel Mendy has sung the praise of Rayo Vallecano manager, Inigo Perez, crediting the 38-year-old for shaping his career.

Having arrived at Rayo Vallecano last summer on loan from Real Betis, Nobel Mendy is enjoying life under the Spanish tactician in the current La Liga campaign.

He has established himself as a key player for the Basque coach and in an interview with Wiwsport, the 21-year-old was full of praise for his manager.

Nobel Mendy has earned debut call up

“When I play well, he tells me, just like when I play less well. He’s always telling me: ‘You’re not always going to play very well; there will be times when you play less well.

“He’s taught me so much.” “I’ve come to the world’s attention this year thanks to him.

Nobel Mendy earned his debut call up to the Senegalese national team for their two international friendlies against Peru and neighbors The Gambia this month.

He gave account of how the former Osasuna player shaped his style of play.

“He’s helped me improve, he works a lot with me, and he gives me a lot of confidence.

“I watch a lot of videos with him, sometimes at the end of training. As he often says, he knows my potential.

“He knows I’m far from reaching my full potential. After my first match, he told me to enjoy it because tougher times will come; that’s life.

“I can never thank him enough for everything he does for me.”

Nobel Mendy has played 18 La Liga matches with two goals under his belt this season for Rayo Vallecano.