Crew signs midfielder Brais Méndez from Real Sociedad

Thursday, July 2, 2026
CBUSsports Staff
info@cbussports.com

The Columbus Crew have acquired Brais Méndez as a Designated Player from La Liga’s Real Sociedad. The Spanish midfielder will be added to the Crew roster when the MLS secondary transfer window opens on July 13. His contract runs through the 2028-29 season with a club option for the 2029-30 campaign.

“We are excited to add Brais to our team and welcome him to Columbus. His high-level technical skillset 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.

Méndez joins the Black & Gold after nearly a decade in Spain’s top flight, where he recorded 33 goals and 24 assists in 166 matches for Real Sociedad. Méndez helped the side qualify for the UEFA Champions League following the 2022-23 season.

Earlier this year, Méndez helped lead Real Sociedad to a Copa Del Rey title, capped with a win over Atletico Madrid in penalties (2-2, 4-3) on April 19.

After representing Spain at various youth levels, Méndez posted the game-winning goal in his senior international debut during a 1-0 friendly victory over Bosnia on Nov. 18, 2018. Méndez has four senior caps for the Spanish national