Real Madrid News
Ancelotti the happiest person after Real Madrid seal star defender’s renewal – report
Although he was not always in the spotlight, Ferland Mendy was one of Real Madrid’s standout performers last season.
Helping soften the effects of a relentless injury crisis and winning the complete trust of coach Carlo Ancelotti, Mendy proved himself a formidable force in the back line.
Injuries have occasionally hindered the Frenchman’s ability to display his top qualities consistently. Still, when he’s fit and available there are very few defensive full-backs who can light a candle to Mendy.
Now, Real Madrid have decided to repay the 29-year-old for his solid contributions in the last six years at the club with a contract renewal until 2027.
An agreement with him has been reached and Mendy will sign the new contract officially once he returns from vacation.
Ancelotti delighted with Mendy’s renewal
Renewing Mendy became a priority for the Merengues, with manager Carlo Ancelotti pushing to secure the Frenchman’s future before his contract expires in 2025.
As such, it is no surprise that according to MARCA (h/t RM4 Arab), the person most happy about renewing Ferland Mendy’s contract is Carlo Ancelotti.
The Italian has frequently vouched for Mendy during press conferences in the past, most notably heralding him as the best defensive full-back last season.
His faith in the player is evident, and given the wealth of attacking options Real Madrid possesses, retaining a player who offers assurance in defence ensures a well-rounded team and stability.
Moreover, with Fran Garcia offering an attacking threat with his nature to overlap, Mendy’s profile offers something different and one that coincides with the team’s needs.
It must also be noted that doubts over Alphonso Davies’ arrival also increased the necessity of Mendy’s renewal.
Real Madrid News
Carlos Espi reacts after scoring match-winning goal in Elche 2-3 Real Madrid: ‘Starting like this is a dream’
Carlos Espi is becoming Real Madrid’s unlikely late-game specialist.
The 21-year-old once again came off the bench to rescue Jose Mourinho’s side, this time scoring the 91st-minute winner in a dramatic 3-2 victory over Elche.
It was his second goal for the club, and both have arrived at crucial moments.
Speaking to Real Madrid TV after the match, Espi could barely contain his excitement.
“I’m so happy—the happiest man in the world. I try to help the team any way I can, and every time I step onto the field, I give it my all and come away feeling great.
“Starting like this has been a dream. This isn’t over yet; we’re going to keep going because we have Sunday’s match coming up.
Carlos Espi winning goal in Elche vs Real Madrid game. Mbappe assist. pic.twitter.com/STJBV3ikQL
— Daily Foot Vibes (@dailyfootvibes) September 16, 2026
“This is a team effort. All of us who take the field make the most of our opportunities and give it our all,” he began.
Espi keeps making his minutes count
There is a growing pattern to Espi’s involvement. Even though he has yet to start a match for the first team, that has not stopped him from making an impact.
His first goal arrived against Espanyol in Real Madrid’s opening game, when another late strike helped secure the result.
Against Elche, he was required again after Real Madrid surrendered a two-goal lead and suddenly found themselves in serious trouble.
Espi eventually appeared at the back post in the 91st minute and finished the move to give Mourinho’s team all three points.
The youngster shared the credit with his teammates, but he also had special praise for the player who supplied his decisive moment.
That assist came from Kylian Mbappe, whose presence has made Espi’s route into the starting XI particularly difficult.
“It’s unbelievable—it’s crazy to watch him train and play. In this case, he set me up for the goal, and I’m very happy for him, too.”
First Madrid derby already has Espi excited
The timing of Espi’s latest contribution could hardly be more interesting, as Real Madrid now face Atletico Madrid on Sunday, giving the forward an opportunity to experience his first Madrid derby.
“I’m really looking forward to it—I’m so excited. It’s my first derby here, and we’re going to go for it.”
For Mourinho, Espi is a useful option when matches become chaotic. He may not yet be a regular starter, but his two appearances on the scoresheet have carried considerably more weight than the minutes he has played.
