Real Madrid enters the new season with its squad almost finalized. All positions, except for the deep-lying playmaker, have enough alternatives. On the left back, three players are competing for one spot and one will spend much of the season out; that player appears to be Ferland Mendy.
Carreras and García, the owners of the flank
When Xabi Alonso took charge, one of his priorities was to strengthen the left back. That's why Álvaro Carreras arrived from Benfica for €50 million. Carreras has been signed to be a starter and his place isn't expected to be questioned.
Fran García will be responsible for filling in the minutes Carreras leaves available, while Mendy will have to adapt to a more secondary role.
Alonso's system requires the fullbacks to perform broader functions than usual. They must move into interior positions, participate in the build-up, and move the ball quickly in tight spaces. Mendy doesn't fully master those skills, and his performance may be limited within the current system.
Mendy and the uncertainty
Real Madrid doesn't rule out selling Mendy, but his constant physical problems raise doubts. So far, no offer has arrived. The result is clear: Mendy will remain at the club for another season.
It will be a year to show effort and commitment. His minutes will depend on the circumstances, and he will have to work harder than ever to earn a place on the field.
Meanwhile, he will continue to receive his salary, without consistently contributing to the first team. The situation is one of immobility: neither on nor off the field are significant changes expected.
Last season and expectations
In the previous campaign, Mendy played 31 matches, accumulating more than 2,200 min. He didn't score any goals, but he provided two assists. His performance was solid, but insufficient to keep a guaranteed leading role with the current competition.
Looking ahead to 2026, if he keeps healthy, the club could consider a transfer. Meanwhile, Mendy will have to accept his secondary role and adapt to the team's dynamics. Physical condition, adaptation to the system, and consistency are now more important than individual talent.
Mendy, trapped between the stands and the bench
The left back at Real Madrid is set: Carreras as starter, Fran García as alternative, and Mendy relegated. Neither on nor off the field are major changes expected for him this season.
Ferland Mendy faces a year of patience and effort, his departure isn't a priority and his opportunities to shine will be limited. In soccer, the one with the most talent doesn't always win; often, it's decided by adaptation to the system, consistency, and staying healthy. Mendy will have to prove he can contribute more if he wants to regain prominence, although today he's neither present nor expected.