Ferland Mendy, left back for Real Madrid, is experiencing days of uncertainty. The club has already taken a clear stance: it's willing to sell him and has set a price. The number is 14 million euros, that's the key figure, no more, no less.
The Frenchman arrived at Bernabéu in 2019 for 48 million. Five years later, his value has dropped. Injuries have been constant; his performance, inconsistent. Although he has had brilliant stretches, the lack of continuity has weighed too heavily.
Now, with internal competition and new signings, Mendy could be living his last days as a Madrid player.
An excess of left backs scenario
The arrival of Álvaro Carreras from Benfica has changed the outlook. The young Spanish left back joins the first team with strength. To him are added Fran García and Mendy himself, three footballers for just one position.
Real Madrid doesn't want to accumulate unnecessary players. Carlo Ancelotti is clear about it: two left backs are enough. Although Mendy has experience, his physical condition puts him behind in the list of priorities.
In addition, his salary isn't low. Freeing up his spot would help the club balance its accounts and look toward other reinforcements.
Why 14 million?
The figure isn't random, it's what the club considers a reasonable sale. No big offers are expected, but a fair deal is desired. Mendy, at 30 years old, has a market.
In France, England, and even Saudi Arabia there's interest. The problem is convincing the player. He doesn't want to move, he has a contract until 2027 and feels comfortable in Madrid. He's not willing to change teams, although he understands that if he doesn't get minutes, he might not have another option.
The key will be if an offer arrives that meets what the club is asking for. 14 million is the exit barrier. If it's reached, the doors will open.
Madrid future or agreed departure?
Mendy can still stay, Ancelotti values him. When he's healthy, he's solid defensively, but that's not enough. The team needs reliability, continuity, and real competition, and Carreras's signing casts doubt on his prominence.
Fran García is also pushing. His offensive profile has convinced much of the coaching staff and he's younger. That's why the club doesn't rule out keeping Fran and Carreras, and letting Mendy go.
The decision hasn't been made, but everything points to a change. If the right offer comes, Madrid will sell. If not, Mendy will stay, although his role will be secondary.