Real Madrid has started the season with significant changes. Xabi Alonso's arrival has brought a firm hand and drastic decisions. Some players who were indispensable last season now face the possibility of being forgotten.
Mendy's role in jeopardy
Ferland Mendy has gone from being an undisputed starter to being on the edge. The French left-back, plagued by frequent injuries, isn't part of the new coach's plans. According to some sources, Xabi Alonso has already told him that he won't count on him except in exceptional circumstances.
The message is clear: if Ferland Mendy wants to keep playing, he must look for a new destination before the transfer window closes. Otherwise, his presence in the team will be minimal, limited to emergency situations due to suspensions or injuries to other players.
Alonso's priorities
Xabi Alonso has his preferences at left-back. The coach fully trusts Álvaro Carreras, who is expected to be a starter in the coming years. Meanwhile, Fran García has the coach's backing and will fight for a spot on the flank.
This leaves Ferland Mendy in a delicate position. Neither Alonso nor the sporting management want to keep three players for the same position. The combination of poor performance and physical problems makes the Frenchman the expendable piece of the trio.
The obstacle of injuries
The problem for an immediate departure of Ferland Mendy is his physical condition. Currently injured, it's difficult for any club to take a chance on him before the summer transfer window closes. Meanwhile, Real Madrid will have to live with three left-backs in the squad, although one of them will hardly play at all.
Meanwhile, Mendy keeps hoping to regain the coach's trust. However, the signs aren't encouraging. Alonso seems determined to rely on the other two players and relegate the Frenchman to a secondary role.
A sale that seems mandatory
For Florentino Pérez and the sporting management, Mendy's departure appears to be a necessity rather than an option. Keeping a player who isn't in the coach's plans is not only a sporting risk but also a financial problem.
If Mendy doesn't find a team soon, the season will be complicated. His room for maneuver will be minimal and the competition on the left flank will keep closing doors for him. For now, the clock is ticking and the transfer window is nearing its end.