Back in the early 2000s, there were very few midfielders who were touted as a force to be reckoned with. But Gaizka Mendieta was certainly a part of that majestic category. Having played in two successive Champions League finals back then, Mendieta left a long-lasting impact on the European football scene with his impeccable running on and off the ball, as well as his general talent with the ball at his feet. These were traits which led to him being voted UEFA’s Best Midfielder in 2000 and 2001; an achievement that is still held in high regard till today. The Spanish midfield maestro also went on to grace the Italian Serie A with Lazio, Spanish La Liga with Barcelona, before ending his career in England with Middlesbrough.
He was recently down in Malaysia, and FourthOfficialTV caught up with him for a comprehensive chat on footballing matters. In this exclusive 3-part interview, we talk to Gaizka about the good times at Valencia, the nightmare at Lazio, his resurrection at Middlesbrough Football Club and what’s in store for him as far as the future is concerned.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dEli525OMAc&feature=youtu.be
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