Jonathan Mensah

After coming through the academy setup at Ashanti Gold, Jonathan was handed his professional debut for the club by head coach David Duncan during the 2007–08 Ghana Premier League season.{{cite web|url=http://ghanasoccernet.com/ghana-defender-jonathan-mensah-owes-career-coach-david-duncan?comment=1|title=Ghana defender Jonathan Mensah owes career to coach David Duncan|website=GhanaSoccerNet.com|date=28 January 2014|access-date=18 June 2018|archive-date=18 June 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180618230343/http://ghanasoccernet.com/ghana-defender-jonathan-mensah-owes-career-coach-david-duncan?comment=1|url-status=live}} At just 17 years of age, he played 29 times for 'AshGold' and scored two goals in his lone season with the senior team.{{cite web|url=http://ladbrokes.touch-line.com/Player.asp?lang=&coid=-73&teid=3124&plid=218691|title=Jonathan Mensah stats at Ladbrokes|website=Ladbrokes.com|access-date=16 June 2018|archive-date=17 June 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180617092913/http://ladbrokes.touch-line.com/Player.asp?lang=&coid=-73&teid=3124&plid=218691|url-status=live}}

Jonathan joined South African club Free State Stars in September 2008, moving to Ea Lla Koto alongside his 'AshGold' teammate David Telfer.{{cite web|url=https://www.sowetanlive.co.za/news/2008-09-12-free-state-stars-geared-to-beat-arrows/|title=Free State Stars geared to beat Arrows|website=SowetanLive.co.za|access-date=16 June 2018|quote=Their new acquisitions include the Ghanaian pair of Jonathan Mensah and David Telfer...|archive-date=18 June 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180618230615/https://www.sowetanlive.co.za/news/2008-09-12-free-state-stars-geared-to-beat-arrows/|url-status=live}} He scored his inaugural goal for the club on 10 January 2009, as part of a 3–2 victory over AmaZulu,{{cite web|url=https://us.soccerway.com/matches/2009/01/10/south-africa/psl/free-state-stars/amazulu/689641/|title=Free State Stars 3–2 AmaZulu|website=Soccerway.com|access-date=18 June 2018|archive-date=18 June 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180618230447/https://us.soccerway.com/matches/2009/01/10/south-africa/psl/free-state-stars/amazulu/689641/|url-status=live}} and went on to make 26 appearances on the year. At the end of the season, Jonathan received a trial with Greek club Panathinaikos; he was "reported to have done well," but could not sign for the team since they had exhausted their quota of foreign players. He turned down offers from other Greek clubs to go on trial, and instead returned to South Africa.{{cite web|url=http://www.goal.com/en/news/1659/south-africa/2009/08/13/1437623/jonathan-mensah-decides-to-stay-at-free-state-stars|title=Jonathan Mensah Decides To Stay at Free State Stars|website=Goal.com|access-date=27 June 2010|archive-date=15 August 2009|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090815105807/http://www.goal.com/en/news/1659/south-africa/2009/08/13/1437623/jonathan-mensah-decides-to-stay-at-free-state-stars|url-status=live}}

Although Jonathan missed most of the start of the 2009–10 season while with the Ghana U20s, he was reinstated to the starting lineup following his return to Free State Stars. His second goal for the club was scored on 4 November 2009, a ninetieth-minute match winner against AmaZulu.{{cite web|url=https://us.soccerway.com/matches/2009/11/04/south-africa/psl/free-state-stars/amazulu/796747/|title=Free State Stars 1–0 AmaZulu|website=Soccerway.com|access-date=18 June 2018|archive-date=19 June 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180619014159/https://us.soccerway.com/matches/2009/11/04/south-africa/psl/free-state-stars/amazulu/796747/|url-status=live}} Jonathan appeared fourteen times before the winter break, but Ea Lla Koto struggled in those games,{{cite web|url=http://www.goal.com/en/news/1658/ghana/2009/12/28/1712183/jonathan-mensah-leaves-free-state-stars-with-a-heavy-heart|title=Jonathan Mensah Leaves Free State Stars With A Heavy Heart|website=Goal.com|access-date=18 June 2018|archive-date=18 June 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180618230342/http://www.goal.com/en/news/1658/ghana/2009/12/28/1712183/jonathan-mensah-leaves-free-state-stars-with-a-heavy-heart|url-status=live}} winning just three of those fourteen when he was in the squad.

Jonathan received interest from multiple European clubs ahead of the January 2010 transfer window, notably Serie A club Udinese and Bordeaux of Ligue 1. Both clubs submitted offers to Free State Stars, but it was Udinese who brought the player in for a medical in late December, ahead of the opening of the transfer window on 1 January.{{cite web|url=http://www.goal.com/en/news/1658/ghana/2009/11/16/1627988/udinese-ready-to-sign-ghanaian-jonathan-mensah-from-free|title=Udinese Ready To Sign Ghanaian Jonathan Mensah From Free State Stars|website=Goal.com|access-date=18 June 2018|archive-date=19 June 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180619035730/http://www.goal.com/en/news/1658/ghana/2009/11/16/1627988/udinese-ready-to-sign-ghanaian-jonathan-mensah-from-free|url-status=live}}

With the opening of the Italian transfer window, Jonathan officially became an Udinese player on 1 January 2010; he signed a three-year contract with the Serie A club. With the move, Jonathan united with his national teammate Kwadwo Asamoah, who entered his third season in Udine. However, before he had even arrived at Udinese, it was rumored that Jonathan was to be immediately loaned out, with Udinese's feeder club Granada the apparent destination.{{cite web|url=https://www.modernghana.com/news/256553/mensah-leaves-free-state-stars-for-udinese.html|title=Mensah leaves Free State Stars for Udinese|website=ModernGhana.com|access-date=19 June 2018|archive-date=20 June 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180620024418/https://www.modernghana.com/news/256553/mensah-leaves-free-state-stars-for-udinese.html|url-status=live}}

Jonathan's first loan spell at Granada expired ahead of the 2010 FIFA World Cup, with rumours swirling that he would be sold ahead of the beginning of the tournament. In Italy, both Juventus and Lazio registered interest in the player, while reports from his native country suggested that Premier League clubs Aston Villa and Tottenham Hotspur would pursue a transfer.{{cite web|url=http://ghanasoccernet.com/world-cup-2010-ghanas-jonathan-mensah-attracts-english-suitors|title=World Cup 2010: Ghana's Jonathan Mensah attracts English suitors|website=GhanaSoccerNet.com|date=6 June 2010|access-date=19 June 2018|archive-date=20 June 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180620074140/http://ghanasoccernet.com/world-cup-2010-ghanas-jonathan-mensah-attracts-english-suitors|url-status=live}} Following his performance in South Africa, interest also came from Olympique Lyonnais and Newcastle United. However, Udinese opted against a sale and instead sent Jonathan back on loan to Granada.{{cite web|url=http://frenchfootballweekly.com/2011/07/18/the-madness-of-mensah/|title=THE MADNESS OF MENSAH|website=FrenchFootballWeekly.com|date=18 July 2011|access-date=19 June 2018|archive-date=20 June 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180620024410/http://frenchfootballweekly.com/2011/07/18/the-madness-of-mensah/|url-status=live}}

In June 2011, Jonathan returned from loan in Spain, saying "I think I will have to prove to the coach that I can [win a place] and remain in the team."{{cite web|url=https://www.ghanaweb.com/GhanaHomePage/SportsArchive/Jonathan-Mensah-wants-to-fight-for-Udinese-position-211359|title=Jonathan Mensah wants to fight for Udinese position|website=GhanaWeb.com|date=30 November 2001|access-date=19 June 2018|archive-date=20 June 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180620101233/https://www.ghanaweb.com/GhanaHomePage/SportsArchive/Jonathan-Mensah-wants-to-fight-for-Udinese-position-211359|url-status=live}} However, he was later quoted by the Ghana Football Association as saying "Udinese have been very good to me and I am very happy to be at this club. Football can be a strange workplace, though, and you can move any time two clubs agree terms," as he was rumored to have transfer interest from France.{{cite web|url=https://www.ghanafa.org/mensah-open-to-move-away-from-udinese|title=MENSAH OPEN TO MOVE AWAY FROM UDINESE|website=GhanaFA.org|access-date=19 June 2018|archive-date=20 June 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180620024715/https://www.ghanafa.org/mensah-open-to-move-away-from-udinese|url-status=live}} He would agree a move to Evian in July, ending his eighteen-month spell with Udinese having never appeared for the club.

In January 2010, after joining Udinese, Jonathan moved on loan to Spanish club Granada. The initial loan to the Segunda División B side was for six months, in order to get him regular playing time; it was also necessary because Udinese already had hit their quota of foreign players, and were unable to register Jonathan in the squad.{{cite web|url=http://www.africansoccerunion.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=106531:mensah-joins-granada-report-&catid=121&Itemid=200117|title=Jonathan Mensah joins Granada|website=AfricanSoccerUnion.com|access-date=27 June 2010|url-status=usurped |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110707093531/http://www.africansoccerunion.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=106531%3Amensah-joins-granada-report-&catid=121&Itemid=200117|archive-date=7 July 2011}} However, he did not feature in a match for Granada during that initial loan. Jonathan made the bench twice, but did not play{{cite web|url=https://www.bdfutbol.com/en/t/t2009-1059.html|title=Squad of Granada 2009–10|website=BDFutbol.com|access-date=19 June 2018|archive-date=20 June 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180620074202/https://www.bdfutbol.com/en/t/t2009-1059.html|url-status=live}} as Granada won the Segunda División B and were promoted to the Segunda División for the first time since 1987–88.

Jonathan was sent back on loan to Granada for the 2010–11 Segunda División season, as Granada played their first second tier season in 22 years. After eight months with the club, he finally made his debut for El Graná on 29 August 2010 with a start against Real Betis in a season-opening 4–1 defeat.{{cite web|url=https://www.bdfutbol.com/en/p/p.php?id=114109|title=Real Betis 4–1 Granada|website=BDFutbol.com|access-date=20 June 2018|archive-date=20 June 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180620231957/https://www.bdfutbol.com/en/p/p.php?id=114109|url-status=live}} Jonathan scored his first, and only, goal for Granada on 21 November, although his 57th-minute strike came as part of a 3–2 defeat against Numancia.{{cite web|url=https://www.bdfutbol.com/en/p/p.php?id=114235|title=Numancia 3–2 Granada|website=BDFutbol.com|access-date=20 June 2018|archive-date=20 June 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180620232000/https://www.bdfutbol.com/en/p/p.php?id=114235|url-status=live}} He also received his first professional red card that season, in the 48th minute of a 5–2 victory over Las Palmas on 26 February 2011.{{cite web|url=https://www.bdfutbol.com/en/p/p.php?id=114382|title=Granada 5–2 Las Palmas|website=BDFutbol.com|access-date=20 June 2018|archive-date=20 June 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180620232002/https://www.bdfutbol.com/en/p/p.php?id=114382|url-status=live}} Jonathan made 15 appearances on the season, scoring once, as Granada won the promotion play-offs and were promoted to La Liga for the first time in 35 years.

File:JonathanMensah.jpg

On 8 July 2011, Jonathan moved to newly promoted Ligue 1 side Evian, signing a four-year contract with the French club for an undisclosed fee.{{cite web|url=http://www.etgfc.com/2011/07/08/jonathan-mensah-sengage-avec-le-club/|title=Jonathan Mensah s'engage avec le club|website=ETGFC.com |access-date=8 July 2011|language=fr|trans-title=Jonathan Mensah engages with the club|url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110709194032/http://www.etgfc.com/2011/07/08/jonathan-mensah-sengage-avec-le-club/|archive-date=9 July 2011}} He made his club debut on 21 September, going the full ninety minutes in a 2–0 defeat away to Marseille.{{cite web |url=http://www.ligue1.com/ligue1/feuille_match/74434|title=Marseille 2–0 Evian|website=Ligue1.com|access-date=20 June 2018}} However, Jonathan did not play again on the season, as he aggravated a thigh injury while on international duty and remained on the sidelines until August 2012.{{cite web|url=https://www.ghanaweb.com/GhanaHomePage/NewsArchive/artikel.php?ID=250581|title=Jonathan Mensah makes injury return|website=GhanaWeb.com|date=30 November 2001|access-date=20 June 2018|archive-date=20 June 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180620232152/https://www.ghanaweb.com/GhanaHomePage/NewsArchive/artikel.php?ID=250581|url-status=live}}

Jonathan began the 2012–13 season well, featuring six times in Evian's first 11 matches.{{LFP|id=mensah-jonathan|name=Jonathan Mensah}} However, his form and fitness declined, with injuries and international duty keeping him out of the team.{{cite web |date=7 November 2012 |title=Injury rules Ghana defender Jonathan Mensah out of Cape Verde friendly |url=http://ghanasoccernet.com/injury-rules-ghana-defender-jonathan-mensah-out-of-cape-verde-friendly/ |access-date=20 June 2018 |website=GhanaSoccerNet.com |archive-date=20 June 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180620232243/http://ghanasoccernet.com/injury-rules-ghana-defender-jonathan-mensah-out-of-cape-verde-friendly/ |url-status=live }} Upon his return in February, he was demoted to the reserve side, playing six matches in the Championnat de France Amateur 2. He appeared 12 times overall, playing six games each for the first team and the reserves.{{cite web |title=Jonathan Mensah Dropped Again From Evian Squad |url=https://www.ghanamma.com/2013/03/08/jonathan-mensah-dropped-again-from-evian-squad/ |access-date=20 June 2018 |website=GhanaMMA.com |archive-date=20 June 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180620232612/https://www.ghanamma.com/2013/03/08/jonathan-mensah-dropped-again-from-evian-squad/ |url-status=live }}

Jonathan returned to the first team in 2013, featuring in Evian's opening game of the 2013–14 Ligue 1 campaign and playing the full ninety minutes in a 1–1 draw with Sochaux on 10 August 2013.{{cite web|url=http://espnfc.com/us/en/gamecast/369578/gamecast.html?soccernet=true&cc=5901|title=Evian Thonon Gaillard 1–1 Sochaux|website=ESPNFC.com|access-date=16 August 2013}} He scored his first goal for the club on 14 December, a 73rd-minute strike as Evian drew 1–1 with Stade de Reims,{{cite web|url=http://www.goal.com/en-gh/news/4389/ghanaian-football/2013/12/16/4483204/mensah-revels-in-debut-evian-goal-but-disappointed-with-draw|title=Mensah revels in debut Evian goal but disappointed with draw|website=Goal.com|access-date=27 June 2018|archive-date=28 June 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180628015437/http://www.goal.com/en-gh/news/4389/ghanaian-football/2013/12/16/4483204/mensah-revels-in-debut-evian-goal-but-disappointed-with-draw|url-status=live}} then four days later made his Coupe de la Ligue debut by appearing in a round of 16 tie against Bastia. Jonathan did miss time through injury and suspension: he was out for five weeks at the start of the season after suffering a thigh injury,{{cite web|url=https://www.ghanaweb.com/GhanaHomePage/NewsArchive/artikel.php?ID=290808|title=Jonathan Mensah makes injury return|website=GhanaWeb.com|date=3 November 2013|access-date=27 June 2018|archive-date=27 June 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180627230656/https://www.ghanaweb.com/GhanaHomePage/NewsArchive/artikel.php?ID=290808|url-status=live}} and picked up a three-match ban after getting sent off 40 minutes into a defeat against Lyon in January.{{cite web|url=http://www.goal.com/en-gh/news/4389/ghanaian-football/2014/02/07/4601225/ghana-defender-mensah-slapped-with-a-three-match-ban|title=Ghana defender Mensah slapped with a three-match ban|website=Goal.com|access-date=27 June 2018|archive-date=27 June 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180627230946/http://www.goal.com/en-gh/news/4389/ghanaian-football/2014/02/07/4601225/ghana-defender-mensah-slapped-with-a-three-match-ban|url-status=live}} He returned to the team for the final seven matches of the season, helping Evian avoid relegation by four points. Jonathan appeared 27 times on the campaign, scoring once.

Following his performances at the 2014 FIFA World Cup, Jonathan was rated highly{{cite web|url=https://bleacherreport.com/articles/2105500-scouting-report-should-manchester-united-sign-jonathan-mensah|title=Scouting Report: Should Manchester United Sign Jonathan Mensah?|website=BleacherReport.com|access-date=27 June 2018|archive-date=27 June 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180627230816/https://bleacherreport.com/articles/2105500-scouting-report-should-manchester-united-sign-jonathan-mensah|url-status=live}} and rumored to be a transfer target for "several big European clubs," notably Monaco{{cite web|url=https://www.myjoyonline.com/sports/2014/July-21st/transfer-newsmonaco-joins-race-for-defender-jonathan-mensah.php|title=Transfer News:Monaco joins race for defender Jonathan Mensah|website=MyJoyOnline.com|access-date=27 June 2018|archive-date=28 June 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180628015519/https://www.myjoyonline.com/sports/2014/July-21st/transfer-newsmonaco-joins-race-for-defender-jonathan-mensah.php|url-status=live}} and Sampdoria.{{cite web|url=https://www.ghanaweb.com/GhanaHomePage/soccer/Sampdoria-eye-Jonathan-Mensah-318571?channel=D1|title=Sampdoria eye Jonathan Mensah |website=GhanaWeb.com|date=26 July 2014 |access-date=27 June 2018}} No moves came to fruition, however, and he returned to Evian for the 2014–15 season. Jonathan was a staple in the team at the start of the year, appearing ten times for Les Croix de Savoyes through the end of October. During that stretch, he scored his second goal for the club in a 2–1 victory over Lens;{{cite web|url=http://www.espn.co.uk/football/french-ligue-1/match/393643/evian-thonon-gaillard-lens/report|title=Evian Thonon Gaillard 2–1 Lens|website=ESPN.co.uk|access-date=27 June 2018|archive-date=28 June 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180628015458/http://www.espn.co.uk/football/french-ligue-1/match/393643/evian-thonon-gaillard-lens/report|url-status=live}} he also received his second red card in a 2–1 defeat to Lorient in the Coupe de la Ligue.{{cite web|url=http://sport.citifmonline.com/2014/10/29/jordan-ayew-scores-winner-jonathan-mensah-sees-red-in-french-league-cup/|title=Jordan Ayew scores winner, Jonathan Mensah sees red in French League Cup|website=Sport.CitiFMOnline.com|access-date=27 June 2018|archive-date=27 June 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180627230956/http://sport.citifmonline.com/2014/10/29/jordan-ayew-scores-winner-jonathan-mensah-sees-red-in-french-league-cup/|url-status=dead}} Jonathan promptly fell out of the Evian squad following that sending off, first suffering from a hamstring injury{{cite web|url=https://www.modernghana.com/news/583608/jonathan-mensah-injured.html|title=Jonathan Mensah injured|website=ModernGhana.com|access-date=27 June 2018|archive-date=28 June 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180628015616/https://www.modernghana.com/news/583608/jonathan-mensah-injured.html|url-status=live}} and then getting called up by Ghana for the 2015 Africa Cup of Nations. He played just twice more on the campaign, before suffering an injury while on international duty in March{{cite web|url=http://www.caughtoffside.com/2015/04/01/jonathan-mensah-an-injury-doubt-for-evian/|title=Jonathan Mensah an injury doubt for Evian|website=CaughtOffside.com|date=April 2015|access-date=27 June 2018|archive-date=28 June 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180628015458/http://www.caughtoffside.com/2015/04/01/jonathan-mensah-an-injury-doubt-for-evian/|url-status=live}} and then receiving a four-month ban from FIFA in May that ended his season. Jonathan appeared in twelve games for Evian, scoring once as the club were relegated to the second tier.

On 19 May 2015, Jonathan was banned for four months by FIFA in a breach of contract case. The case stemmed from his transfer to Evian in July 2011, as FIFA judged that Jonathan had still been under contract with Udinese but claimed to be a free agent when he signed with the French club.{{cite web|url=https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/soccer/2015/05/19/ghana-defender-jonathan-mensah-banned-4-months-by-fifa/27569059/|title=Ghana defender Jonathan Mensah banned 4 months by FIFA|website=USAToday.com|access-date=28 June 2018|archive-date=29 June 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180629000613/https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/soccer/2015/05/19/ghana-defender-jonathan-mensah-banned-4-months-by-fifa/27569059/|url-status=live}} Udinese had originally reported him just weeks after the transfer, claiming that he had four years remaining on his contract; Jonathan, however, responded by saying "My manager cannot make such a mistake. I have no contract with Udinese."{{cite web|url=http://www.peacefmonline.com/pages/sports/soccer/201107/55409.php|title=Jonathan Mensah Defends Decision To Evian Join Without Udinese's Knowledge|website=PeaceFMOnline.com|access-date=28 June 2018|archive-date=28 June 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180628233835/http://www.peacefmonline.com/pages/sports/soccer/201107/55409.php|url-status=live}} FIFA originally completed their investigation and levied the ban in July 2014; however, Jonathan appealed to the Court of Arbitration for Sport, who eventually upheld the ban. Following the CAS ruling, FIFA confirmed that the ban began retroactively on 30 April 2015, and "begins again at the start of the next season, whichever country he may choose to play in." It was also confirmed that the ban only applied to club football, with Jonathan still eligible to play for Ghana over the summer.{{cite news|url=https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/32772430|title=CAS upholds four-month ban for Ghana's Jonathan Mensah|work=BBC Sport|access-date=28 June 2018|archive-date=17 July 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180717121544/https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/32772430|url-status=live}}

Even following the ban, Jonathan was "hopeful" that he would move to a new club over the summer window; he told reporters in his native Ghana that he did not "think this situation will hamper any move because like I said, teams know what I can do." Four-time defending Scottish champions Celtic had shown interest in the player,{{cite web|url=https://www.hitc.com/en-gb/2015/07/04/reported-celtic-target-jonathan-mensah-discusses-his-future-open/page/1/|title=Reported Celtic target Jonathan Mensah discusses his future, open to a move|website=HITC.com|date=4 July 2015|access-date=28 June 2018|archive-date=28 June 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180628233656/https://www.hitc.com/en-gb/2015/07/04/reported-celtic-target-jonathan-mensah-discusses-his-future-open/page/1/|url-status=live}} but promptly ended their pursuit following the announcement from FIFA confirming the ban.{{cite web|url=https://www.belfastlive.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/celtic-axe-move-ghana-world-9305547|title=Celtic axe move for Ghana World Cup star Jonathan Mensah as FIFA ban rules out bid|website=BelfastLive.co.uk|date=21 May 2015|access-date=28 June 2018|archive-date=28 June 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180628233909/https://www.belfastlive.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/celtic-axe-move-ghana-world-9305547|url-status=live}} Jonathan instead re-signed with Evian on a new deal after his initial four-year contract had expired.

Jonathan missed the first three months of the 2015–16 season while serving the duration of his ban, officially returning to the active squad for Evian on 26 October.{{cite web|url=https://www.ghanamma.com/2015/10/29/good-to-be-back-jonathan-mensah-thrilled-to-return-after-fifa-ban/|title=Good to be back: Jonathan Mensah thrilled to return after FIFA ban|website=GhanaMMA.com|access-date=28 June 2018}} He made his Ligue 2 debut on 6 November, playing the full ninety minutes in a 4–0 victory over Valenciennes. However, Jonathan almost immediately was ruled out through injury, missing the entire month of December after suffering a knock while on international duty.{{cite web|url=https://www.modernghana.com/news/657038/injured-jonathan-mensah-fails-to-recover-for-ligue-2-game.html|title=Injured: Jonathan Mensah fails to recover for Ligue 2 game|website=ModernGhana.com|access-date=28 June 2018|archive-date=29 June 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180629021840/https://www.modernghana.com/news/657038/injured-jonathan-mensah-fails-to-recover-for-ligue-2-game.html|url-status=live}} He would play just six more times for Evian while being the subject of much transfer speculation, with Premier League club Swansea City reported to be interested on bringing him in on a free transfer at the end of the season.{{cite web|url=https://www.walesonline.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/swansea-city-make-ghana-international-10913820|title=Swansea City make Ghana international number one summer target – reports|website=WalesOnline.co.uk|date=19 February 2016|access-date=28 June 2018}} Jonathan did not wait until the summer, however, departing Evian before the end of February. He finished the 2015–16 campaign having appeared in eight matches, seven of those with the senior team, and finished his five seasons in France with two goals from 60 appearances.

File:Lokom-Anzi (1).jpg and Kwadwo Poku|160px]]

On 23 February 2016, Jonathan signed a two-and-a-half-year contract with Russian Premier League club Anzhi Makhachkala;{{cite web|url=http://fc-anji.ru/news/ru/club_news/djonatan_mensa_podpisal_kontrakt_s_anji240216/|title=Джонатан Менса подписал контракт с "Анжи"|website=FC-Anji.ru|access-date=23 February 2016|language=ru|trans-title=Jonathan Mensah signed a contract with "Anji"|archive-date=28 February 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160228052657/http://www.fc-anji.ru/news/ru/club_news/djonatan_mensa_podpisal_kontrakt_s_anji240216|url-status=dead}} according to reports, the transfer fee for the defender was just €150,000, with a 20% sell-on clause tacked on as part of the agreement.{{cite web|url=http://www.goal.com/en-gh/news/4392/african-all-stars/2016/02/24/20659652/official-mensah-joins-anzhi-makhachkala|title=Official: Mensah joins Anzhi Makhachkala|website=Goal.com|access-date=9 July 2018|archive-date=10 July 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180710102214/http://www.goal.com/en-gh/news/4392/african-all-stars/2016/02/24/20659652/official-mensah-joins-anzhi-makhachkala|url-status=live}} He made his debut for Anzhi in the first game following the winter break, playing the full ninety minutes in a 1–0 defeat against Amkar Perm.{{cite web|url=https://int.soccerway.com/matches/2016/03/07/russia/premier-league/anzhi-makhachkala/fk-amkar-perm/2050252/|title=Anzhi Makhachkala 0–1 Amkar Perm|website=Soccerway.com|access-date=9 July 2018|archive-date=10 July 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180710125004/https://int.soccerway.com/matches/2016/03/07/russia/premier-league/anzhi-makhachkala/fk-amkar-perm/2050252/|url-status=live}} Jonathan missed much of the spring while on international duty, and returned to the club at the end of April with Anzhi sitting bottom of the table in the RPL. He started each of the last three games of the season, from which Anzhi claimed seven points, helping the club advance to 13th and into a relegation playoff against Volgar Astrakhan of the Russian Football National League. There, Jonathan played all 180 minutes as Anzhi escaped relegation by a 3–0 aggregate score.{{cite web|url=http://www.ghananews24.com/news/video-watch-jonathan-mensah-celebrate-with-his-team-mates-after-helping-anzhi-survive-the-drop|title=Video: Watch Jonathan Mensah celebrate with his team mates after helping Anzhi survive the drop|website=GhanaNews24.com|access-date=10 July 2018}} He finished the season having appeared eight times.

Jonathan struggled to find consistent game time during the front half of the 2016–17 season, appearing in just nine of seventeen league matches.{{cite web|url=http://www.sportsnewsgh.com/2017/01/02/speculation-jonathan-mensah-set-miss-avram-grants-squad/|title=Speculation: Jonathan Mensah Set To Miss Avram Grant's Squad|website=SportsNewsGH.com|access-date=10 July 2018|archive-date=10 July 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180710102633/http://www.sportsnewsgh.com/2017/01/02/speculation-jonathan-mensah-set-miss-avram-grants-squad/|url-status=live}} He did, however, make his debut in the Russian Cup with a start against Mordovia Saransk in the round of 32.{{cite web|url=https://int.soccerway.com/matches/2016/09/21/russia/cup/mordovya-saransk/anzhi-makhachkala/2347357/|title=Mordovia Saransk 1–2 Anzhi Makhachkala|website=Soccerway.com|access-date=10 July 2018|archive-date=10 July 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180710145117/https://int.soccerway.com/matches/2016/09/21/russia/cup/mordovya-saransk/anzhi-makhachkala/2347357/|url-status=live}} Midway through the winter break, Jonathan was rumored to be departing Anzhi permanently, with American club Columbus Crew SC the reported destination.{{cite web|url=https://www.massivereport.com/2016/12/30/14130662/report-columbus-crew-sc-to-sign-defender-jonathan-mensah|title=REPORT: Columbus Crew SC to sign defender Jonathan Mensah|website=MassiveReport.com|date=30 December 2016|access-date=10 July 2018|archive-date=10 July 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180710102021/https://www.massivereport.com/2016/12/30/14130662/report-columbus-crew-sc-to-sign-defender-jonathan-mensah|url-status=live}} That move would come to fruition three days into 2017; Jonathan departed Anzhi after appearing just nineteen times for the Eagles.

On 3 January 2017, it was announced that Major League Soccer club Columbus Crew had signed Jonathan as the fifth Designated Player in club history. He became the second DP on the Columbus roster at the time, alongside Federico Higuaín.{{cite web|url=https://www.columbuscrewsc.com/post/2017/01/03/crew-sc-acquires-designated-player-jonathan-mensah|title=Crew SC acquires Designated Player Jonathan Mensah|website=ColumbusCrewSC.com|access-date=3 January 2017|archive-date=5 January 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170105145846/http://www.columbuscrewsc.com/post/2017/01/03/crew-sc-acquires-designated-player-jonathan-mensah|url-status=live}} Prior to the season, Jonathan was named as part of the leadership council for the Crew, alongside Federico Higuaín, Ethan Finlay, Justin Meram, and Josh Williams.{{cite web|url=https://www.massivereport.com/2017/3/2/14795394/columbus-crew-sc-wil-trapp-named-captain-leadership-council-formed|title=Wil Trapp named captain, leadership council formed|website=MassiveReport.com|date=2 March 2017|access-date=22 December 2017|archive-date=12 July 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180712025013/https://www.massivereport.com/2017/3/2/14795394/columbus-crew-sc-wil-trapp-named-captain-leadership-council-formed|url-status=dead}} The five collectively served as vice-captains behind captain Wil Trapp. Jonathan made his club debut on 4 March, playing the full ninety minutes in a season-opening 1–1 draw with Chicago Fire.{{cite web|url=https://matchcenter.mlssoccer.com/matchcenter/2017-03-04-columbus-crew-sc-vs-chicago-fire/recap|title=Columbus Crew SC 1, Chicago Fire 1 – 2017 MLS Match Recap|website=MLSSoccer.com|access-date=11 July 2018|archive-date=12 July 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180712023858/https://matchcenter.mlssoccer.com/matchcenter/2017-03-04-columbus-crew-sc-vs-chicago-fire/recap|url-status=live}} He scored his first goal for the Crew on 26 August, providing the winner in a 2–1 victory over FC Dallas,{{cite web|url=https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/mls/2017/08/26/kamara-mensah-lift-crew-to-2-1-win-over-fc-dallas/105001614/|title=Kamara, Mensah lift Crew to 2–1 win over FC Dallas|website=USAToday.com|access-date=11 July 2018|archive-date=12 July 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180712030756/https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/mls/2017/08/26/kamara-mensah-lift-crew-to-2-1-win-over-fc-dallas/105001614/|url-status=live}} then notched his second for the club nearly a month later, part of a 3–2 victory over New York Red Bulls on 23 September.{{cite web|url=https://www.apnews.com/aaaf8f3d1da9445ab33f654c7a3a2147|title=Crew beat Red Bulls 3–2, extend unbeaten streak to 7|website=APNews.com|date=24 September 2017|access-date=11 July 2018|archive-date=12 July 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180712030702/https://www.apnews.com/aaaf8f3d1da9445ab33f654c7a3a2147|url-status=live}} However, Jonathan's form during the season was strongly criticized, with even the player admitting that the season "wasn't great".{{cite web|url=https://www.mlssoccer.com/post/2017/11/10/crew-scs-jonathan-mensah-appears-have-conquered-mls-learning-curve|title=Crew SC's Jonathan Mensah appears to have conquered MLS learning curve|website=MLSSoccer.com|access-date=11 July 2018|archive-date=24 July 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180724184838/https://www.mlssoccer.com/post/2017/11/10/crew-scs-jonathan-mensah-appears-have-conquered-mls-learning-curve|url-status=live}}{{cite web|url=http://www.dispatch.com/sports/20170712/crew-sc--jonathan-mensah-still-adjusting-to-new-team-home|title=Jonathan Mensah still adjusting to new team, home|website=Dispatch.com|access-date=11 July 2018|archive-date=12 July 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180712023057/http://www.dispatch.com/sports/20170712/crew-sc--jonathan-mensah-still-adjusting-to-new-team-home|url-status=live}} He received two red cards, against Houston in March and Philadelphia in July,{{cite web|url=https://sbisoccer.com/2017/07/pair-of-questionable-red-cards-doom-crew-in-lopsided-defeat|title=Pair of questionable red cards doom Crew in lopsided defeat|website=SBISoccer.com|date=27 July 2017|access-date=11 July 2018|archive-date=12 July 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180712022219/https://sbisoccer.com/2017/07/pair-of-questionable-red-cards-doom-crew-in-lopsided-defeat|url-status=live}} saw eleven total cards on the season, and committed multiple errors that were alleged to have led to goals.{{cite web|url=https://ghanasoccernet.com/columbus-crew-fans-slam-jonathan-mensah-after-defenders-error-leads-to-defeat-against-atlanta-united|title=Columbus Crew fans slam Jonathan Mensah after defender's error leads to defeat against Atlanta United|website=GhanaSoccerNet.com|date=2 July 2017|access-date=11 July 2018|archive-date=12 July 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180712052123/https://ghanasoccernet.com/columbus-crew-fans-slam-jonathan-mensah-after-defenders-error-leads-to-defeat-against-atlanta-united|url-status=live}}{{cite web|url=https://www.si.com/soccer/2017/10/31/columbus-crew-nycfc-mls-playoffs-mapfre-stadium-callens-red-david-villa|title=Crew Pounce After Red Card, Put NYCFC in Corner in Playoff First Leg|website=SI.com|date=31 October 2017 |access-date=11 July 2018}}{{Cite web |last=Oti Adjei |first=Michael |date=2017-06-19 |title=Mensah determined to prove himself in MLS |url=https://www.espn.com/soccer/story/_/id/37524913/jonathan-mensah-determined-prove-mls |access-date=2024-06-07 |website=ESPN.com |language=en |archive-date=7 June 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240607204853/https://www.espn.com/soccer/story/_/id/37524913/jonathan-mensah-determined-prove-mls |url-status=live }} Despite these criticisms, he would remain an integral part of the Crew's lineup, eventually starting all five playoff matches as Columbus were eliminated in the conference finals. Jonathan made 31 appearances in his first season in MLS, tallying two goals.

Jonathan remained on the leadership council ahead of the 2018 season, this time joined by Ricardo Clark, Higuaín, Hector Jiménez, Zack Steffen, and Williams.{{cite web|url=https://www.prosoccerusa.com/columbus-crew-sc/three-players-added-columbus-crew-sc-leadership-council/|title=Three players added to Columbus Crew SC leadership council|website=ProSoccerUSA.com|access-date=10 March 2018|archive-date=11 March 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180311094318/https://www.prosoccerusa.com/columbus-crew-sc/three-players-added-columbus-crew-sc-leadership-council/|url-status=dead}} He would see his contract bought down by the club in late January, meaning that Jonathan would no longer be considered a Designated Player and clearing the way for Milton Valenzuela to be acquired by Columbus.{{cite web|url=https://www.massivereport.com/2018/1/25/16934074/columbus-crew-sc-sign-left-back-milton-valenzuela-mls-2018|title=Columbus Crew SC signs left back Milton Valenzuela|website=MassiveReport.com|date=25 January 2018|access-date=11 July 2018|archive-date=12 July 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180712024433/https://www.massivereport.com/2018/1/25/16934074/columbus-crew-sc-sign-left-back-milton-valenzuela-mls-2018|url-status=dead}}

Prior to the 2020 season opener, Jonathan was named captain in his fourth season with the club, succeeding Trapp.{{Cite web|url=https://www.massivereport.com/2020/3/1/21153066/captain-columbus-crew-sc-mls-major-league-soccer-jonathan-mensah-2020|title=Jonathan Mensah named Crew's 2020 captain|last=Benatar|first=Orri|date=1 March 2020|website=Massive Report|language=en|access-date=9 March 2020|archive-date=9 January 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210109093042/https://www.massivereport.com/2020/3/1/21153066/captain-columbus-crew-sc-mls-major-league-soccer-jonathan-mensah-2020|url-status=dead}} Mensah played every single minute of every single match during the 2020 season; en route to an MLS Cup victory over Seattle Sounders FC.{{Cite web |title=Jonathan Mensah 2020 Match Logs |url=https://fbref.com/en/players/8087e6cb/matchlogs/2020/summary/Jonathan-Mensah-Match-Logs |website=fbref |access-date=12 August 2022 |archive-date=12 August 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220812064734/https://fbref.com/en/players/8087e6cb/matchlogs/2020/summary/Jonathan-Mensah-Match-Logs |url-status=live }} He led the club to their first trophy in twelve years, whilst also becoming the first African to captain his side to an MLS Cup.{{Cite web|last=Ampofo|first=Owuraku|date=13 December 2020|title=Jonathan Mensah leads Columbus Crew to first MLS Cup in 12 years|url=https://www.myjoyonline.com/sports/football/jonathan-mensah-leads-columbus-crew-to-first-mls-cup-in-12-years/|access-date=13 December 2020|website=MyJoyOnline.com|language=en-US|archive-date=13 December 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201213103152/https://www.myjoyonline.com/sports/football/jonathan-mensah-leads-columbus-crew-to-first-mls-cup-in-12-years/|url-status=live}}

During the 2021 Columbus Crew season, Jonathan scored 4 total goals across all competitions; including the game winner versus Atlanta United FC on 24 July.{{Cite web |title=Atlanta United vs. Columbus Crew Match Report |url=https://fbref.com/en/matches/92d86f28/Atlanta-United-Columbus-Crew-July-24-2021-Major-League-Soccer |access-date=12 August 2022 |website=fbref |archive-date=12 August 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220812064746/https://fbref.com/en/matches/92d86f28/Atlanta-United-Columbus-Crew-July-24-2021-Major-League-Soccer |url-status=live }}

On 10 February 2023, the San Jose Earthquakes announced they had acquired Jonathan from the Columbus Crew for a fee of $200,000, possibly rising to $500,000, depending on his longevity with the Quakes.{{Cite web |last=San Jose Earthquakes |date=10 February 2023 |title=NEWS: Earthquakes Acquire Former Best XI Defender Jonathan Mensah in Trade with Columbus Crew |url=https://www.sjearthquakes.com/news/news-earthquakes-acquire-former-best-xi-defender-jonathan-mensah-intrade-with-co |access-date=12 February 2023 |website=San Jose Earthquakes |archive-date=12 February 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230212122517/https://www.sjearthquakes.com/news/news-earthquakes-acquire-former-best-xi-defender-jonathan-mensah-intrade-with-co |url-status=live }}

On 4 January 2024, Mensah reunited with former head coach Caleb Porter at New England Revolution, who he joined as a free agent after leaving San Jose at the end of their 2023 season.{{Cite web|url=https://www.revolutionsoccer.net/news/new-england-revolution-sign-free-agent-defender-jonathan-mensah|title=New England Revolution sign free agent defender Jonathan Mensah | New England Revolution|website=revolutionsoccer.net|access-date=5 January 2024|archive-date=4 January 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240104154049/https://www.revolutionsoccer.net/news/new-england-revolution-sign-free-agent-defender-jonathan-mensah|url-status=live}} New England declined Jonathan's contract option following their 2024 season.{{Cite web|url=https://www.revolutionsoccer.net/news/new-england-revolution-announce-year-end-roster-moves-2024|title=New England Revolution announce year-end roster moves | New England Revolution|website=revolutionsoccer.net}}

Jonathan made his debut in the Ghanaian international setup at the 2009 African Youth Championship, where he earned his first three youth international caps and helped the Ghana U20s claim their third-ever continental title. In the final, he had a goal-line clearance in the 58th minute to help preserve a 2–0 victory over Cameroon.{{cite web|url=http://www.cafonline.com/images/news/1233507022-a.jpg|title=Ghana claims third AYC title|website=CAFOnline.com|access-date=22 July 2018|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090307230436/http://www.cafonline.com/competition/can-u-20_2009/news/2154-ghana-claims-third-ayc-title.html|archive-date=7 March 2009}} Jonathan was then called up for the 2009 FIFA U-20 World Cup, first being named to the provisional squad{{cite web|url=http://www.goal.com/en/news/89/africa/2009/08/25/1461153/ghana-pick-provisional-squad-for-u-20-world-cup|title=Ghana Pick Provisional Squad For U-20 World Cup|website=Goal.com|access-date=22 July 2018|archive-date=23 July 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180723122553/http://www.goal.com/en/news/89/africa/2009/08/25/1461153/ghana-pick-provisional-squad-for-u-20-world-cup|url-status=live}} and then selected as part of the final roster.{{cite web|url=http://www.just-football.com/2009/10/10-best-young-players-under-20-world/|title=10 Best Young Players at the FIFA Under 20 World Cup 2009|website=Just-Football.com|date=21 October 2009|access-date=30 June 2010|archive-date=8 May 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160508224439/http://www.just-football.com/2009/10/10-best-young-players-under-20-world/|url-status=live}} He appeared in six of the Black Satellites' seven matches at the tournament, marshaling the defense as Ghana went all the way to the final. There, against four-time champions Brazil, Ghana claimed their first U20 World Cup with a 4–3 penalty shoot-out victory after 120 scoreless minutes. Jonathan had his kick in the shoot-out saved by Rafael, but was bailed out when Daniel Agyei saved each of the next three Brazilian kicks.{{cite web|url=https://www.fifa.com/u20worldcup/matches/round=253219/match=300090123/match-report.html|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150615001043/http://www.fifa.com/u20worldcup/matches/round=253219/match=300090123/match-report.html|url-status=dead|archive-date=15 June 2015|title=Ghana sink Seleção for gold|website=FIFA.com|access-date=22 July 2018}} He finished his eligibility at U20 level having appeared nine times.

Thanks to his youth performances, Jonathan was called up for the first time to the Ghana senior team; he made his debut for the Black Stars against Uganda on 31 May 2009.{{NFT player|id=22994}} He was included in the squad for the 2010 Africa Cup of Nations, although he did not make an appearance as Ghana went to the final before being defeated by Egypt.{{cite web|url=https://www.theguardian.com/football/2010/jan/31/egypt-africa-cup-nations-ghana|title=Egypt win Africa Cup of Nations for record third consecutive time|website=TheGuardian.com|date=31 January 2010|access-date=22 July 2018|archive-date=29 October 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201029115803/https://www.theguardian.com/football/2010/jan/31/egypt-africa-cup-nations-ghana|url-status=live}} Jonathan did enough, however, to earn a call-up to the 2010 FIFA World Cup, where he was given the number 8 shirt usually worn by Michael Essien.{{cite web|url=http://www.peacefmonline.com/pages/sports/soccer/201406/202347.php|title=Black Stars' Players Shirt Numbers Revealed For World Cup|website=PeaceFMOnline.com|access-date=27 June 2010}} With first-choice centre back Isaac Vorsah out injured, Jonathan established himself as a central defensive partner for John Mensah. He would go on to play two out of three group stage games, as well as the round of 16 win against the United States.{{cite web|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/world_cup_2010/matches/match_50/default.stm|title=USA 1–2 Ghana (aet)|website=BBC.co.uk|access-date=27 June 2010|archive-date=1 July 2010|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100701100114/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/world_cup_2010/matches/match_50/default.stm|url-status=live}}

Jonathan established himself as a starter following the World Cup, including scoring his first goal for Ghana in a friendly against Togo on 8 February 2011.{{cite web|url=https://www.foxsports.com/soccer/story/ghana-beats-togo-41-in-friendly-59632252-020811|title=Ghana beats Togo 4–1 in friendly|website=FoxSports.com|access-date=22 July 2018|archive-date=23 July 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180723122644/https://www.foxsports.com/soccer/story/ghana-beats-togo-41-in-friendly-59632252-020811|url-status=live}} He was named to the squad to appear at the 2012 Africa Cup of Nations, the final edition of the tournament in even-numbered years before being moved to avoid conflicts with the World Cup.{{cite web|url=http://www.goal.com/en/news/1658/ghana/2011/12/15/2804053/ghana-announce-25-man-squad-for-2012-africa-cup-of-nations|title=Ghana announce 25-man squad for 2012 Africa Cup of Nations|website=Goal.com|access-date=22 July 2018|archive-date=29 January 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180129044230/http://www.goal.com/en/news/1658/ghana/2011/12/15/2804053/ghana-announce-25-man-squad-for-2012-africa-cup-of-nations|url-status=live}} Jonathan played twice during the group stage, but lost his place in the lineup during the knockout stage to John Boye before returning for the third place match, a 2–0 defeat to Mali.{{cite web|url=https://edition.cnn.com/2012/02/11/sport/football/ghana-mali-africa-cup/index.html|title=Mali claim third place in Africa Cup of Nations|website=CNN.com|date=11 February 2012|access-date=22 July 2018|archive-date=23 July 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180723122605/https://edition.cnn.com/2012/02/11/sport/football/ghana-mali-africa-cup/index.html|url-status=live}} He was again named in the squad a year later, called up for the 2013 Africa Cup of Nations alongside his club teammate Mohammed Rabiu.{{cite web|url=http://www.goal.com/en-gh/news/4389/ghanaian-football/2013/01/09/3659849/asante-kotokos-rashid-sumaila-dropped-from-ghanas-final-23|title=Asante Kotoko's Rashid Sumaila dropped from Ghana's final 23-man 2013 Afcon squad|website=Goal.com|access-date=22 July 2018|archive-date=29 June 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220629050429/https://www.goal.com/en-gh/news/4389/ghanaian-football/2013/01/09/3659849/asante-kotokos-rashid-sumaila-dropped-from-ghanas-final-23|url-status=live}} However, Jonathan played just once during the tournament, as a halftime substitute in the third place play-off to replace Boye.{{cite news|url=https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/21387641|title=Mali 3–1 Ghana|work=BBC Sport|access-date=22 July 2018|archive-date=30 June 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220630144229/https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/21387641|url-status=live}}

On 12 May 2014, Jonathan was named in Ghana's 30-man preliminary squad for the 2014 FIFA World Cup;{{cite web|url=https://africanfootball.com/news/429196/Ghana-coach-submits-30-man-preliminary-squad-to-FIFA|title=GHANA COACH SUBMITS 30-MAN PRELIMINARY SQUAD TO FIFA|website=AfricanFootball.com|access-date=22 July 2018|archive-date=22 June 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220622180227/https://africanfootball.com/news/429196/Ghana-coach-submits-30-man-preliminary-squad-to-FIFA|url-status=live}} he was then named to the final squad on 2 June.{{cite web|url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/teams/ghana/10810459/Ghana-World-Cup-2014-squad.html|title=Ghana World Cup 2014 squad|website=Telegraph.co.uk|date=2 June 2014|access-date=22 June 2014|archive-date=27 April 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190427191525/https://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/teams/ghana/10810459/Ghana-World-Cup-2014-squad.html|url-status=live}} He started every match at the tournament for the Black Stars, although they failed to advance out of the group with a record of one draw and two defeats.{{cite web|url=https://www.sportsnet.ca/soccer/world-cup-2014/2014-fifa-world-cup-brazil-ghana-portugal/|title=Ghana and Portugal eliminated from World Cup|website=Sportsnet.ca|access-date=22 July 2018|archive-date=13 June 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210613111334/https://www.sportsnet.ca/soccer/world-cup-2014/2014-fifa-world-cup-brazil-ghana-portugal/|url-status=live}}

After appearing six times during qualifying, Jonathan played every minute of Ghana's 2015 Africa Cup of Nations campaign, helping them reach the final. There, the Black Stars lost in a penalty shootout against Ivory Coast, although Jonathan made his penalty as the sixth taker for Ghana.{{cite web|url=https://www.theguardian.com/football/2015/feb/08/ivory-coast-ghana-africa-cup-of-nations-final-match-report|title=Ivory Coast win Africa Cup of Nations in penalty shootout against Ghana|website=TheGuardian.com|date=8 February 2015|access-date=22 July 2018}} Two years later, at the 2017 Africa Cup of Nations, Jonathan was initially named to the preliminary squad on 2 January;{{cite web|url=http://www.goal.com/en-gh/news/18232/black-stars/2017/01/02/31080162/ghana-name-26-man-provisional-squad-for-afcon|title=Ghana name 26-man provisional squad for Afcon|website=Goal.com|access-date=22 July 2018|archive-date=23 July 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180723122600/http://www.goal.com/en-gh/news/18232/black-stars/2017/01/02/31080162/ghana-name-26-man-provisional-squad-for-afcon|url-status=live}} one day later, he left camp to complete a transfer move to Columbus Crew. He was still named to the final squad on 4 January,{{cite web|url=https://ghanasoccernet.com/afcon-2017-list-of-players-for-each-of-the-16-teams|title=Full squad lists of all 16 teams at the 2017 Africa Cup of Nations|website=GhanaSoccerNet.com|date=9 January 2017|access-date=22 July 2018|archive-date=23 July 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180723152131/https://ghanasoccernet.com/afcon-2017-list-of-players-for-each-of-the-16-teams|url-status=live}} but played just twice in Gabon. One of those appearances came in the third place play-off, as Ghana were defeated on a goal from Alain Traoré of Burkina Faso.{{cite web|url=http://www.france24.com/en/20170204-burkina-faso-snatches-third-place-africa-cup-nations-with-late-goal-ghana|title=Burkina Faso snatches third place in Africa Cup of Nations with late goal|website=France24.com|date=4 February 2017|access-date=22 July 2018|archive-date=23 July 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180723122535/http://www.france24.com/en/20170204-burkina-faso-snatches-third-place-africa-cup-nations-with-late-goal-ghana|url-status=live}}

Ghana had appeared in three consecutive World Cups before failing to qualify for the 2018 FIFA World Cup. Jonathan appeared five times during the qualification cycle for the Black Stars, including both games in the second round against the Comoros.{{cite web|url=http://www.goal.com/en-gh/match/395232/ghana-vs-comoros/report|title=Ghana 2–0 Comoros (2–0 agg.)|website=Goal.com|access-date=22 July 2018|archive-date=23 July 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180723122549/http://www.goal.com/en-gh/match/395232/ghana-vs-comoros/report|url-status=live}} Although Ghana finished third in their group in the third round, and therefore failed to qualify for Russia 2018, Jonathan wore the captain's armband for the Black Stars for the first time: against Congo on 5 September 2017, with Ghana claiming a 5–1 victory that was their only win in the third round.

Jonathan is known to be a devout Christian who reads Psalms before every game. He is friends with fellow Christian footballers Christian Atsu and Odion Ighalo.{{cite web|url=http://www.xtheline.co.uk/ghana-anzhi-defender-jonathan-mensah/|title=Ghana and Anzhi Makhackkala defender, Jonathan Mensah: "I have to give God thanks"|website=XtheLine.co.uk|access-date=21 September 2017|archive-date=22 September 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170922002537/http://www.xtheline.co.uk/ghana-anzhi-defender-jonathan-mensah/|url-status=dead}}

In July 2013, Jonathan launched his eponymous charity foundation, the Jonathan Mensah Foundation. It was "aimed at providing logistical support, donations and funding to under-privileged institutions and orphanages across the country."{{cite web|url=https://www.modernghana.com/news/476615/jonathan-mensah-launches-foundation-to-support-disadvantaged.html|title=Jonathan Mensah Launches Foundation To Support Disadvantaged In Ghana|website=ModernGhana.com|access-date=11 July 2018|archive-date=12 July 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180712054042/https://www.modernghana.com/news/476615/jonathan-mensah-launches-foundation-to-support-disadvantaged.html|url-status=live}} The foundation has donated to and helped to clean up the Royal Seed Home and Dzorwulu Special School, among other endeavors.{{cite web|url=https://www.modernghana.com/news/742294/jonathan-mensahs-foundation-cleans-up-and-donates-to-dzorwu.html|title=Jonathan Mensah's Foundation cleans up and donates to Dzorwulu Special School|website=ModernGhana.com|access-date=11 July 2018|archive-date=12 July 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180712053821/https://www.modernghana.com/news/742294/jonathan-mensahs-foundation-cleans-up-and-donates-to-dzorwu.html|url-status=live}} For the 2017 season, Jonathan was named as the Columbus Crew Humanitarian of the Year, both for his work through his charity and his volunteer efforts in the Columbus community.{{cite web|url=https://www.columbuscrewsc.com/2017teamawards/humanitarianoftheyear|title=2017 OhioHealth HUMANITARIAN OF THE YEAR – Jonathan Mensah|website=ColumbusCrewSC.com|access-date=11 July 2018|archive-date=12 July 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180712055323/https://www.columbuscrewsc.com/2017teamawards/humanitarianoftheyear|url-status=dead}}

{{updated|match played 20 July 2024}}{{Soccerway|jonathan-mensah/62379}}{{MLS player|jonathan-mensah}}

{{notelist}}

{{updated|9 October 2022|}}

Granada

• Segunda División B: 2009–10
• La Liga play-offs: 2011

Columbus Crew

• MLS Cup: 2020{{Cite web|date=13 December 2020|title=Afful, Mensah star as Columbus Crew win 2020 MLS Cup|url=https://www.graphic.com.gh/sports/sports-news/afful-mensah-star-as-columbus-crew-win-2020-mls-cup.html|access-date=13 December 2020|website=Graphic Online|language=en-gb|archive-date=13 December 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201213100107/https://www.graphic.com.gh/sports/sports-news/afful-mensah-star-as-columbus-crew-win-2020-mls-cup.html|url-status=live}}
• Campeones Cup: 2021

Ghana U20

• FIFA U-20 World Cup: 2009
• African Youth Championship: 2009

Individual

• Columbus Crew SC Humanitarian of the Year: 2017
• Columbus Crew SC Defender of the Year: 2018, 2019, 2020
• MLS Best XI: 2020{{cite web|url=https://www.mlssoccer.com/post/2019/11/20/2020-mls-best-xi|title=2020 MLS Best XI presented by The Home Depot|website=MLSSoccer.com|date=20 November 2020|access-date=20 November 2020|archive-date=20 November 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201120182110/https://www.mlssoccer.com/post/2019/11/20/2020-mls-best-xi|url-status=live}}

{{reflist}}

{{commons category}}

• [https://www.columbuscrewsc.com/players/jonathan-mensah Columbus profile] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171214074641/https://www.columbuscrewsc.com/players/jonathan-mensah |date=14 December 2017 }}
• {{LFP|id=mensah-jonathan|name=Jonathan Mensah}}
• {{MLS player|jonathan-mensah}}
• {{Soccerway|jonathan-mensah/62379}}
• {{BDFutbol|400303|Jonathan Mensah}}

{{2020 MLS Best XI}}

{{Navboxes

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{{Ghana squad 2010 Africa Cup of Nations}}

{{Ghana squad 2010 FIFA World Cup}}

{{Ghana squad 2012 Africa Cup of Nations}}

{{Ghana squad 2013 Africa Cup of Nations}}

{{Ghana squad 2014 FIFA World Cup}}

{{Ghana squad 2015 Africa Cup of Nations}}

{{Ghana squad 2017 Africa Cup of Nations}}

{{Ghana squad 2019 Africa Cup of Nations}}

{{Ghana squad 2021 Africa Cup of Nations}}

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{{DEFAULTSORT:Mensah, Jonathan}}

Category:Living people

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