Cape Verde captain Ryan Mendes joins RS Berkane on one-year deal

Cape Verde international captain Ryan Mendes has completed a move to Moroccan giants RS Berkane, embarking on a new chapter in his long and distinguished professional career.

The experienced forward has signed a one-season contract with the Botola Pro side, with the agreement also containing an option for an additional year.

Mendes arrives in Morocco as a free agent after parting ways with Turkish second-tier club Igdir FK earlier this summer. After weighing up his options, the 36-year-old has opted to continue his career in the Moroccan top flight, where he is expected to bring valuable experience to RS Berkane’s squad.

The deal could potentially keep Mendes at the club until 2028, with the additional year set to be activated automatically if RS Berkane meets specific targets in domestic competition and the CAF Champions League.

His arrival represents a major experience boost for the Moroccan club, particularly given Mendes’ extensive career at both international and club level.

The Cape Verdean forward has built a reputation as one of his country’s most important players over the years and remains a key figure for the Blue Sharks. He was also part of Cape Verde’s impressive campaign at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, where his leadership and experience proved valuable to the national team.

Mendes has enjoyed a career that has taken him across several leagues in Europe and the Gulf region, giving him considerable experience of different footballing environments and high-pressure competitions.

His ability to operate in attack, combined with his leadership qualities, is expected to make him an important addition to RS Berkane as the club prepares for another demanding season.

The transfer also carries a strong personal connection for Mendes, as he will be reunited with Bubista, his former coach with the Cape Verde national team.

Bubista was recently appointed head coach of RS Berkane, and his familiarity with Mendes’ qualities could have played a significant role in bringing the veteran forward to Morocco.

The reunion could prove beneficial for both parties, with Bubista gaining the services of a player whose abilities and character he already knows well, while Mendes gets the opportunity to work under a coach who has previously trusted him at international level.

For RS Berkane, the signing comes at a time when the club is looking to compete strongly on both the domestic and continental fronts. Mendes’ experience could therefore prove particularly useful in the CAF Champions League, where his previous exposure to international football could help the team navigate the demands of continental competition.

At 36, Mendes may be entering the latter stages of his playing career, but his move to RS Berkane underlines the continued demand for his experience and leadership.

The Cape Verde captain will now look to make an immediate impact in Morocco and help RS Berkane challenge for honours in the Botola Pro while pushing for success on the African stage.