Real Madrid News
Real Madrid seriously contemplating a contract extension for 29-year-old defender
Ferland Mendy’s position at Real Madrid was tenuous last summer, with an exit widely anticipated.
Fast forward to this year, and Mendy’s impressive performance during the 2023/2024 campaign has earned him strong support from the coach, increasing the possibility of pursuing continuity in the Spanish Capital.
Real Madrid considering handing out a renewal to Mendy
Indeed, as per El Chiringuito (h/t RM4Arab), Real Madrid are seriously considering renewing Ferland Mendy’s contract.
Coach Carlo Ancelotti has never shied away from giving his roses to Mendy, often deeming him the best defensive full-back in the world.
Given Ancelotti’s tendency to reserve praise for only the most deserving, Real Madrid’s consideration of offering him a new contract makes sense.
Additionally, the situation with Davies has hit a roadblock. Uli Hoeness, honorary president of Bayern Munich, has stated that the club is prepared to let Davies’ contract run down and potentially lose him for free next summer.
As such, the Merengues would not have to worry about excessive competition this season and can bank on both Mendy and Fran Garcia for the foreseeable future.
While the uncertainty surrounding Davies’ future has played a role in Mendy’s secure spot, his impressive resurgence last season has been a significant factor as well.
Real Madrid plan to begin renewal negotiations soon
The club is looking forward to sitting down with Mendy soon and beginning negotiations for a contract extension.
Mendy’s current deal expires in 2025 next summer and thus Real Madrid do not wish to lose him on a free transfer next year.
A new contract proposal is on the table, and while no agreement has been reached yet, both parties are aligned and aim to finalize it before the European Super Cup.
Real Madrid News
Real Madrid forward Vinicius Jr. admits finishing problem after another frustrating night vs Elche: ‘Can’t miss that much’
Vinicius Jr.’s difficult start in front of goal continued against Elche, and the Real Madrid forward did not need anyone to tell him he had missed another chance to make the difference.
The Brazilian finished the night without a goal despite having chances to get on the scoresheet, while his teammates could only watch from the bench as opportunities went begging.
Jose Mourinho had already identified the problem before kick-off, bluntly pointing to the issue facing his forward, stating, “He’s missing the goal.”
Vini offered an equally frank assessment afterwards.
Rather than hide from another frustrating evening, he accepted responsibility on social media: “The goals will come back; I can’t miss that much…”
Two chances, no finish for Vinicius
Vinicius had two particularly clear openings against Elche, but neither produced the finish Real Madrid needed from their star forward.
The first arrived when he found himself one-on-one with the opposition goalkeeper.
Instead of finding the net, Vinicius caught the ball with the tip of his foot and sent his effort wide. Arda Guler was available during the move and called for the ball, but Vini backed himself to finish the chance.
He had another opportunity after the interval, this time following an excellent pass from Guler during a quick Real Madrid transition. Again, though, Vinicius could not find the target.
His evening ended in the 68th minute, with Mourinho deciding the Brazilian was tired and turning his attention towards Sunday’s Atletico Madrid derby.
Mourinho has a bigger decision to make
The numbers show why Vinicius’ finishing has become a talking point. He managed five shots against Elche, but only one was on target and none found the net.
After seven appearances this season, the Brazilian has scored just once, which is a striking return for a player Real Madrid rely upon to provide a major share of their attacking threat.
Ultimately, though, Real Madrid found another route to victory, with Arda Guler, Kylian Mbappe and Carlos Espi providing the goals in the 3-2 comeback.
