Crew sign La Liga vet Brais Mendez as designated player

The Columbus Crew acquired Spanish midfielder Brais Mendez from La Liga side Real Sociedad on Thursday.

Mendez, 29, arrives as a designated player and will occupy an international roster slot. He is signed through 2028-29 with a club option for the 2029-30 season.

"We are excited to add Brais to our team and welcome him to Columbus. His high-level technical skill set and understanding of the game, displayed in one of the best leagues in the world, will have a positive impact on our roster," said Crew general manager Issa Tall. "The addition of Brais gives our team another talented player for the short- and long-term, and we look forward to his arrival as we look to push during the second part of our season."

Technical brilliance and game-breaking ability. Bienvenido al club, Brais Méndez ??

The Columbus Crew have acquired Brais Méndez as a Designated Player from La Liga's Real Sociedad.

??: https://t.co/LMKoXqK2xu pic.twitter.com/iOXJTZPM65

— The Crew (@ColumbusCrew) July 2, 2026

Mendez joins MLS after a decade in the Spanish top flight with Celta Vigo (2017-22) and Real Sociedad (2022-26).

He tallied 33 goals and 24 assists in 166 matches with Real Sociedad, helping the club qualify for the UEFA Champions League after the 2022-23 season and win the Copa Del Rey title earlier this year.

Mendez contributed 22 goals and 18 assists in 166 matches with boyhood club Celta Vigo.

Columbus entered the FIFA World Cup break in 10th place in the Eastern Conference, two points below the playoff line. The Crew return to action at home against New York City FC on July 22.

--Field Level Media