Gaizka Mendieta Reflects on His Tense Relationship with Gareth Southgate at Middlesbrough

Middlesbrough’s 2003 acquisition of Gaizka Mendieta was a significant achievement, as the club managed to sign one of the most talented midfielders of the previous decade, who played a pivotal role in Valencia’s success under manager Rafael Benitez.

The gifted playmaker made his mark at the Riverside Stadium, initially on loan, contributing to the club's first major trophy by helping them defeat Bolton Wanderers in the 2004 League Cup final. He later secured a permanent deal and was essential in their journey to the UEFA Cup final two years later.

However, as the subsequent season unfolded, Mendieta found himself sidelined by new manager Gareth Southgate, ultimately leading to the conclusion of his career by the end of the 2007/08 campaign.

Mendieta on His Boro Spell Turning Sour

“He had one year left on his contract as a player, I had two,” Mendieta shared concerning his experience with Southgate. “One summer he called to say he’d been offered the manager’s job. I congratulated him and expressed that he’d have the dressing room's support. However, once the season kicked off, he stopped relying on me and never clarified why—only providing excuses.”

“At one point, I confronted him about my feelings of dishonesty. I believed I deserved transparency for my continued presence at the club,” he added.

Mendieta attributed Southgate's lack of communication to inexperience, noting that it affected not just him but also teammates like Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink, Juninho, and Massimo Maccarone. “We realized the club aimed to revitalize the squad, which would have been fine had they been upfront about it. I didn't appreciate being told I was part of the plans, only to find myself on the bench or in the stands routinely.”

“I recall wanting to play in a friendly for the Basque Country, but Gareth urged me to stay as he intended to start me, only to substitute me at half-time without any context,” he continued. “By the end of the season, I decided to retire. Years later, we crossed paths, and he conceded he perhaps hadn't managed the situation in the best way. I hold no grudges.”