Mendy Digs In: French Defender Vows to Fight for Real Madrid Starting Spot

Mendy Digs In: French Defender Vows to Fight for Real Madrid Starting Spot

Madrid, Spain - Despite a summer of speculation and the recent arrival of new talent, Ferland Mendy is reportedly determined to remain at Real Madrid and compete for the starting left-back position under new manager Xabi Alonso.1 The French international, who recently extended his contract with Los Blancos until 2028, is ready to prove his worth amidst increased competition.2

Real Madrid's left-back situation has been a hot topic this transfer window. The club recently completed a €50 million move for Benfica's Álvaro Carreras, who is widely expected to become the new first-choice left-back.3 This, coupled with the presence of Fran Garcia, who impressed at the Club World Cup, seemed to signal Mendy's potential exit from the Santiago Bernabéu. Reports even suggested that Real Madrid were open to offers for the 30-year-old, viewing him as "reasonably redundant" given the new additions and a club focus on developing younger talent.4

However, according to sources close to the player, Mendy has no intention of leaving. He is said to be "calm and confident" in his ability to reclaim his place in the starting XI. Mendy is currently recovering from surgery for a ruptured proximal rectus femoris tendon in his right quadriceps, an injury that has kept him sidelined for several months.5 His immediate focus is on a full recovery and returning to team training as soon as possible.

Mendy's resolve to stay comes despite a challenging period marked by recurring injuries.6 Last season, he only managed 12 La Liga starts. While his defensive prowess has always been highly regarded, his limited attacking contributions and inconsistent fitness have led to doubts about his long-term future at the club. Former manager Carlo Ancelotti had reportedly been a strong advocate for Mendy's continuity, even claiming he was the best defensive full-back in the world.7 However, with Xabi Alonso now at the helm, the dynamics may shift.

The impending season promises a fierce battle for the left-back spot at Real Madrid. Mendy will face stiff competition from both Carreras, the high-profile new signing, and Fran Garcia, who has shown promise.8 While Real Madrid may have hoped to offload Mendy this summer, his firm stance means they might have to reassess their plans, potentially leading to a decision on Fran Garcia's future instead. The coming weeks of pre-season and the early part of the La Liga campaign will be crucial in determining who ultimately secures the coveted starting role for Los Blancos.