Ferland Mendy has made his long-awaited return to collective training with Real Madrid, marking a significant milestone in his recovery journey. The French defender was sidelined for 171 days due to a right quadriceps tear sustained during the Copa del Rey final on April 26. This Tuesday, he rejoined his teammates in training, signaling the end of a challenging period for the player. In late September, Mendy had begun working with the ball again, hinting at a full recovery within weeks. Now, after nearly six months away from competitive action, he can finally see light at the end of the tunnel.
At 30 years old, Mendy is entering his seventh season with Real Madrid. Last year, he was featured in 14 La Liga matches but faced a tumultuous campaign filled with inconsistent performances and recurring injuries. With his return, Mendy confronts a formidable challenge: regaining his spot in a crowded left-back position. He will have to compete against Álvaro Carreras, who joined from Benfica this summer and has already established himself as a key figure in the squad, despite a recent lackluster display in the derby against Atlético (a 5-2 defeat). Additionally, Fran García is also vying for playing time after demonstrating considerable growth last season.
Intense Competition Awaits
Mendy’s comeback comes at a time when competition for the left-back role is fierce. Carreras has quickly adapted to life at Madrid and has proven to be reliable, while García’s development has made him an attractive option for coach Xabi Alonso. The current situation sees Mendy as one of three players vying for one position—an unusual scenario for a club that typically relies on established starters. As he resumes training, Mendy must not only regain his fitness but also convince Alonso that he deserves to reclaim his place in the starting lineup.
What Lies Ahead for Mendy?
As he works towards full match fitness, Mendy remains one of only three players—including Endrick and Lunin—who have yet to make an appearance since Alonso took charge. This absence raises questions about his future role within the team. Will he manage to secure a regular spot again? His performance in upcoming training sessions will be crucial as he looks to impress the coaching staff and earn back their trust.
Ultimately, Mendy’s return is not just about personal redemption; it symbolizes hope for Real Madrid fans who have missed seeing one of their key defenders in action. With the Clasico approaching and high expectations surrounding the team this season, every player will need to be at their best. Can Mendy rise to the occasion and help steer Madrid towards success once more?
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