Columbus Crew Land Brais Méndez from Real Sociedad in €6M Designated Player Deal

Columbus Crew have officially added some Spanish flair to their midfield, announcing the signing of attacking midfielder Brais Méndez from Real Sociedad. The 29-year-old inked a contract that runs through the 2028/29 MLS season, with a club option for an additional year. Méndez joins as a Designated Player, and the reported transfer fee lands around €6 million — a solid return for Real Sociedad after four seasons with the player. He originally arrived in San Sebastián from Celta Vigo in July 2022 for €14 million and quickly became a key creative force. During his stint at Real Sociedad, Méndez racked up 33 goals and 24 assists across 166 appearances. He also played a crucial role in the club’s Copa del Rey triumph in the 2025/26 campaign, etching his name into the team’s recent history. Now the Galician playmaker brings his vision and experience to Ohio, where Columbus hopes he can spark the attack and push for silverware in the Eastern Conference.