Patrick van Leeuwen advised Gleiker Mendoza to join Shakhtar over Dynamo
Kryvbas manager Patrick van Leeuwen played a crucial role in Gleiker Mendoza's move to Shakhtar, advising the forward to choose the Donetsk club.
Photo: sport.ua
Venezuelan forward Gleiker Mendoza has officially joined Shakhtar Donetsk, signing a five-year contract with the club. The Donetsk side secured the player's signature after winning a transfer battle against Dynamo Kyiv, despite the capital club's willingness to trigger his buyout clause.
Before finalizing the move, the forward reportedly consulted with Kryvbas head coach Patrick van Leeuwen. The manager advised the player that joining the Donetsk club would be the optimal move for his professional development and reaching his full potential.
Mendoza has enjoyed a prolific season in the Ukrainian Premier League, recording 11 goals and 11 assists in 26 appearances. His standout performance came against Dynamo (5:6), where he scored four goals in a single match.