The arrival of Marc Cucurella has intensified competition at left-back and forced Real Madrid into making some difficult decisions ahead of the new season. 

With four players now competing for a single position, the expectation has been that at least one departure would be needed to balance Jose Mourinho’s squad.

However, one case is proving far more complicated than the rest.

According to AS, Ferland Mendy is increasingly expected to remain at the Santiago Bernabeu this summer, not because he is viewed as a key part of Mourinho’s plans, but because circumstances have made an exit extremely difficult to facilitate.

Left-back department is overcrowded

The signing of Cucurella from Chelsea has left Real Madrid with an abundance of options on the left side of defence. 

Competition for minutes was already intense, but the arrival of another established international has increased the pressure on the club to reduce numbers.

Naturally, speculation has surrounded several defenders, with transfer rumours continuing to circulate across Spain and beyond.

On paper, Mendy would appear to be one of the most logical candidates to leave. 

The French defender has struggled to maintain fitness in recent years and has found it increasingly difficult to establish continuity in his performances.

Yet reality tells a different story because the defender underwent surgery in May following a serious muscular problem and is not expected to return until at least September. 

While some reports have suggested an even longer recovery period, Real Madrid are said to disagree with the more pessimistic assessments.

Regardless of the exact timeline, the injury has significantly complicated any possibility of a summer transfer.

Injuries continue to impact Mendy’s future

For potential buyers, the Frenchman’s injury record creates understandable hesitation.

Clubs are unlikely to commit significant resources to a player currently recovering from surgery, particularly one carrying a history of recurring fitness issues. 

As a result, Real Madrid find themselves in a position where selling the defender is easier said than done.

Adding further complications to this situation is his contract. While Real Madrid have privately indicated that his deal runs until 2027, those close to the player maintain that it extends until 2028.

Either way, the club remains tied to a long-term agreement with a player who commands a substantial salary and played an important role in previous Champions League triumphs.

This means, for now, Real Madrid’s options appear limited, and Mendy is more likely to stay than leave.