Chennaiyin FC will begin their title defence against Atletico de Kolkata on the 2nd of August. They will, however, be without the services of star player Stiven Mendoza who has opted to remain in New York for the time being playing in the MLS. A huge loss no doubt, Chennai have roped in a number of players to try to fill the void left by the Colombian but will that be enough or is it juts papering over the cracks?
Stiven Mendoza's impact in the 2016 ISL
The Colombian plied his trade for 2 years at Chennai and was easily their best player in the last campaign. Chennaiyin were in absolute shambles, sitting rock bottom before Mendoza finally came to life. With 6 goals in 5 games, the 24-year-old striker led Chennai on a 5 match winning streak to the finals which they ultimately won.
Mendoza amassed a whopping 13 goals in the tournament and was the league's top scorer by far. A big name player, he came to life after being dropped by coach Marco Materazzi midway through the season. Big game players thrive in the face of adversity and Mendoza is no different. After being dropped against Kolkata, he responded by smashing in a brace against Kerala Blasters.
In the finals, the 24-year-old missed a crucial penalty. And most players would find it almost impossible to recover from such a setback but not Mendoza. The Colombian instead fired himself back into the game and scored the winner for his side.
Also read: ISL 2016: Chennaiyin FC sign John Arne Riise as marquee player
There is absolutely no doubt regarding his pedigree. Probably the league’s biggest star, Mendoza brought a completely different dynamic to the Chennaiyin attack. Not just a reputed goal scorer Mendoza was also a selfless visionary and possessed the ability to pick out the perfect pass almost all the time. As a striker, his conversion rate was outstanding at 25%.
One of the fastest players in the world, fastest in Indian football at least, Mendoza had the ability to tear defences apart using his pace. His effervescence and trickery left defenders often trailing in his wake. Also, a workaholic, Mendoza was constantly on the move pressing the defenders and midfield high up the pitch and forcing them into sloppy back passes and misplaced long balls.
Off the pitch, the Colombian was a fan favourite and was the major reason the Chennaiyin stadium was often sold out.
Background
There is a reason why Mendoza is this good. After his first season in the ISL he was picked up by Brazilian giants Corinthians and although he made just 10 appearances for the club, it was a learning curve for the young attacker. He then returned to Chennai for the 2015 ISL where he was their best player. He was also named the best player in the league and bagged the golden boot award.
Loaned out to New York City, he has played alongside the likes of Andrea Pirlo and Frank Lampard and would have been an outstanding proposition to have. Mendoza initially found it hard to adjust to life in the United States but found his feet as the season progressed.
At New York, Mendoza has received words of praise from none other than Arsenal legend Patrick Vieira. “First of all, Mendoza brings additional pace up front and is really good in the 1v1 situations. Technically he’s a fantastic player and can score goals. He’s another young talented player that we add to our roster and he will be really important for us this season,” the New York FC coach stated.
Although the Colombian will not be returning to Chennai this year, he feels that his stint in India has helped him become the player he is today. "Last year, playing in India helped me getting a better team and league (than I was playing in). I thank Chennaiyin for bringing me here and giving me the confidence to go elsewhere."
Chennaiyin’s attempt to cope with his loss
Although Chennai have roped in Dudu Omagbemi as a replacement for Mendoza. Although deadly in front of goal and having Champions League experience under his bag, he is not expected to provide the same dynamic as the young Colombian. At 31 years of age, Dudu does not quite possess the pace of Mendoza although he is quite adept at finding the back of the net.
They have also managed to sign Baljit Sahni who will be expected to play a major role in Mendoza’s absence. The pair along with Italian striker Davide Succi would have to provide the goals for Chennaiyin FC.
Conclusion
The Indian Super League will not be the same without the Colombian’s flair and trickery and Mendoza will be sorely missed. Chennayin FC will face an uphill task trying to get someone to fill his boots and an even tougher challenge to retain their status as Champions.
