Shakhtar Signs Poker-Scoring Mendoza and Brings Back Karavayev

Mendoza's Move to Shakhtar

According to Главком: Winger Gleiker Mendoza has transferred from Kryvbas to Shakhtar, signing a contract that runs until the summer of 2031. The 24-year-old has recorded 11 goals and 12 assists in 28 club appearances this season. Notably, he scored a poker (four goals) in a memorable 5-6 match against Dynamo. Transfermarkt values him at €1.2 million. Additionally, on January 18, 2025, Mendoza made his debut for the Venezuela national team, where he has since played 7 matches.

Shakhtar activated Mendoza's release clause, paying Kryvbas €3 million. Meanwhile, Dynamo defender Oleksandr Karavayev has declined to extend his contract with the club and will return to Shakhtar next season. Shakhtar has offered Karavayev a two-year deal. Karavayev was part of Shakhtar's system from 2011 and has been playing for Dynamo since July 2019. This season, he has made 31 appearances for Dynamo, scoring 4 goals and providing 5 assists. His current contract with Dynamo runs until the end of the season.

Interest in Mendoza

Clubs from the Czech Republic and Greece, as well as most teams from Ukraine's top-5 league, have shown interest in Mendoza.

Mendoza's transfer to Shakhtar highlights the club's aggressive transfer strategy aimed at strengthening the squad and boosting competitiveness. At the same time, Karavayev's return demonstrates Shakhtar's desire to integrate experienced players familiar with the club's system and traditions. These two moves could significantly impact the team's performance in upcoming seasons.

As Shakhtar continues to reinforce its squad with notable signings like Mendoza and Karavayev, the club's commitment to blending local traditions with modern football is evident. Recently, Shakhtar's foreign players embraced this spirit by donning traditional Ukrainian embroidered shirts for Vyshyvanka Day. This initiative not only showcases the team's cultural connections but also enhances team unity. To learn more about this unique celebration, click here.