Real Madrid News
28-year-old Real Madrid defender to be available for Real Sociedad clash
Spanish publication MARCA has affirmed that Real Madrid defender Ferland Mendy will be ready to play against Real Sociedad this coming Sunday.
Furthermore, the report adds that despite signing a left-back this summer, Fran Garcia, the Frenchman is expected to be Madrid’s first-choice left-back, although a lot will depend on Carlo Ancelotti as well.
Mendy emerges from the shadows of uncertainty at Real Madrid, poised for a triumphant comeback in the face of adversity.
Having been virtually absent for eight long months, he finds himself standing at the precipice of what might be his last opportunity to secure a future at the club beyond June 2025, the expiration date of his current contract.
Difficult road ahead
While there is no questioning Mendy’s exceptional skills on the field, his path to continuity has been persistently obstructed by the relentless onslaught of injuries, affording him little respite.
In the dynamic realm of Madrid, time does not stand still, and the club is actively looking to fortify their left flank, casting shadows of uncertainty over Mendy’s prospects.
The Frenchman could be preferred ahead of new signing Fran Garcia, whose early performances failed to sway Ancelotti’s confidence, culminating in his unsettling outing against Getafe.
Yet, the path ahead may prove even more challenging if the heralded arrival of Alphonso Davies materialises next summer.
The Canadian’s entrance could consign Mendy to the sidelines, enticing him to explore an exit from the club, especially if there is no new contract.
What’s in the offering this season?
Mendy is set to come under Ancelotti’s authority for the upcoming match against Real Sociedad as he embarks on his journey to make a comeback.
The decision of whether he will start right from the beginning or take a gradual approach to minimize risks lies in the hands of Los Blancos’ coach.
What is evident is that his return will occur only when he reaches full fitness, a process that might take some time.
This extended absence follows Mendy’s medical clearance, as the Frenchman has participated in just four official matches over the past eight months.
Following Barcelona’s awe-inspiring comeback win against Celta Vigo yesterday, the pressure is on Real Madrid to regain top spot in La Liga as they travel to Civitas Metropolitano to lock horns against Atletico Madrid.
The first Madrid derby of the season will not feature Vinicius Jr, who had to pull out of the travelling squad today due to a stomach bug.
Jude Bellingham has been given the green light, though, and is likely starting as the out and out striker for this game, with Joselu benched. The Englishman is joined by Rodrygo by his side, while Luka Modric plays behind them as the attacking midfielder.
Behind this trio, Toni Kroos has been handed the keys as the pivot, with Aurelien Tchouameni benched. Eduardo Camavinga starts alongside Federico Valverde as the central midfielders.
Lucas Vazquez fills in for the injured Daniel Carvajal at right-back, while Fran Garcia comes back to take over his left-back spot from Nacho. David Alaba and Antonio Rudiger round off the quadrant in central defence, screening Kepa in goal.
Confirmed Madrid XI: Kepa; Vazquez, Rudiger, Alaba, Garcia; Valverde, Kroos, Camavinga; Modric; Rodrygo, Bellingham
