The most outstanding young Ghanaian player in Europe last season was Bernard Mensah. The 20-year-old played for Portuguese side Vitoria Guimaraes. Mensah is a product of Gomoa Fetteh Feyenoord, now known as the West African Football Academy.
His exploits did not go unnoticed as he was snapped up 2014 Spanish La Liga champions Atletico Madrid.
He has signed a five-year deal with the Madrid-based side, but was loaned out to Getafe for the 2015/2016 season.
Quick Facts
Name: Bernard Mensah
Age: 20
Place of Birth: Accra
Position: Attacking Midfield
Club: Getafe (on loan from Atletico Madrid)
Bernard Mensah enjoyed a stellar debut season in the Portuguese Liga which made him one of the most sought after players in Europe.
The offensive midfielder joined Vitoria Guimaraes’ youth setup in 2012, and went on to score nine goals that season. His sensational performances saw him promoted to the senior team of the first team side.
Key Strengths
A play making midfielder who drives at defences with his speed and power. Mensah’s eye for a pass is undoubtedly one of his key strengths, but his ability to shoot from distance stands out as his most potent weapon as a midfielder.
Mensah can play in central midfield or behind the striker.
Stats
Bernard Mensah made 34 appearances for Vitoria Guimaraes last season, scoring five goals and providing five assists.
On the international scene, he made his debut for Ghana in June 2015 against Togo in Accra and went on to score the game’s only goal.
On hearing about much interest from European clubs, Mensah said: “I keep hearing about these links, but I have been saying my focus is to play well and help Guimaraes into the Europa League.”
Written by Ridwan Asante
Follow Ridwan on Twitter @ridwanasante
Check out his excellent site on everything Ghanaian football, Ghana Soccernet
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