Jhegson 'Sebas' Mendez leaves LAFC for Sao Paulo on free transfer
By Chris Smith
Jhegson 'Sebas' Mendez has ended his four-year stay in Major League Soccer, joining Brazilian Serie A side Sao Paulo on a free transfer from LAFC.
The 25-year-old originally arrived in MLS from Ecuadorian side Independiente DV in 2019, joining Orlando City where he went on to make 83 appearances across all competitions, scoring once and providing two assists.
Mendez moved to LAFC midway through the 2022 season and despite not being first choice, still made 12 appearances to help the Black and Gold seal a Supporters Shield and MLS Cup double.
At international level, the midfielder is capped 34 times for Ecuador at senior level and played a vital role for his country at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar over the winter.
Mendez is the fourth major outgoing from Banc of California Stadium this offseason after Gareth Bale retired, Latif Blessing joined the New England Revolution, and Sebastien Ibeagha moved to FC Dallas via free agency.
As Mendez departs, LAFC announced the signing of veteran goalkeeper Eldin Jakupovic from Everton on Monday.