Since joining the high-profiled, Hollywood owned Wrexham last summer, 26-year-old Jacob Mendy has been relishing the opportunity at one of the most talked about clubs in the country.
Born in Gambia, but raised in Spain, the diverse winger has been loving life in the North of Wales. “I like the area, I like the team. I like everyone, they’re all nice around here and I can’t complain”.
A product of the well renowned Atletico Madrid academy, Mendy began his first-team career with Spanish third division side Puerta Bonita before making the switch to England at the age of 17.
“I had to work, my life changed for a while,” said Mendy. “I stopped playing for a bit. I couldn’t find a team because of the language barrier until I started playing at a really low level for Redhill FC.”
Following a step up with Wealdstone in the National League North, Mendy signed for National League side Borehamwood in the summer of 2022, playing 90 minutes in the sides biggest ever win, a fourth round FA Cup victory over Premier League Bournemouth.
“That was incredible to be fair,” said Mendy looking back on the run. “Coming from where I came from, to being part of history, I’m just blessed to be part of that.”
Since making the move to Wrexham in June, Mendy has played a vital role in Phil Parkinson’s side who currently sit at the top of the National League, four points clear of promotion rivals Notts County.
“We need to keep this dynamic and keep winning and keeping focused on the prize which is winning the league and getting promoted,” said Mendy.
“Every game is massive now every point we can get and win is massive,” continued Mendy. “No matter the team we put out we have to try and get the three points.”
“I think we can get back-to-back promotions if we can get out of the National League,” believes Mendy. “You look at both leagues, there isn’t a massive difference.”
Following the takeover of owners Rob McElhanney and Ryan Reynolds, the media attention around Wrexham has tripled, however Mendy had no idea who they were until recently.
“If I’m honest I didn’t know. I only found out a year ago,” remembers Mendy. “I really don’t know how I didn’t find out before.”
“It’s massive, not just for Wrexham but for British football. It’s an incredible story because normally big people like this will buy a League One or Championship club and start from there but it says a lot from them that they want to start from a National League club and improve and progress it.”
After meeting with McElhanney and Reynolds when signing for the club, Mendy had nothing but praise for them.
“They’re really nice and good people,” praised the winger. “You think because they are that famous you won’t have the chance to have a good conversation with them but they’re really nice and approachable.”
Wrexham host Southend tomorrow, as they look to extend their lead at the top of the table to seven points.
