Cape Verde captain Ryan Mendes has joined Moroccan club RS Berkane on a one-year contract, with the agreement including an option for a further season.
The 36-year-old forward moves to the Botola Pro side as a free agent after leaving Turkish second-tier club Igdir FK earlier this summer.
Mendes’ contract could potentially keep him at RS Berkane until 2028 if the conditions for the additional year are met. The extension is understood to be linked to the club achieving specific targets in domestic competition and the CAF Champions League.
His arrival gives RS Berkane a player with extensive experience at both international and club level as they prepare for another season of domestic and continental football.
Mendes has been one of Cape Verde’s leading players for many years and remains an important figure for the Blue Sharks. He was also part of the country’s 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign, bringing leadership and experience to the squad.
The forward has spent much of his career playing in different leagues across Europe and the Gulf region, giving him experience of a variety of footballing environments and high-pressure competitions.
That experience is expected to be valuable to RS Berkane, particularly in the CAF Champions League.
Mendes will also be reunited with Bubista, the former Cape Verde coach who was recently appointed manager of RS Berkane.
The pair already know each other from their time with the national team, where Bubista worked with Mendes. Their previous relationship could help the Cape Verde captain settle quickly into his new surroundings.
For Bubista, the move provides an opportunity to work again with an experienced player whose qualities and character he already knows.
Mendes, meanwhile, will be hoping the reunion allows him to make an immediate contribution as he begins another chapter of his career in Morocco.
RS Berkane will be competing on both domestic and continental fronts, with Mendes’ experience potentially particularly important in the Champions League.
The Cape Verde international has played across several leagues during a long professional career and has also established himself as a senior figure within his national team.
Although Mendes is now 36, his move to RS Berkane demonstrates that his experience remains highly valued.
The Moroccan club will hope the veteran forward can contribute both on the pitch and inside the dressing room as they pursue honours in the Botola Pro and seek a strong campaign in African competition.
For Mendes, the move represents another opportunity to continue his career at the highest level while working under a coach he already knows.
He will now begin preparations with RS Berkane as the club looks to make full use of his attacking ability, international experience and leadership qualities.
