The “injury hell” continues for Ferland Mendy. The Real Madrid defender is set to undergo a new surgery that will officially end his current campaign with the Spanish giants. Despite a brief return to form, the Frenchman’s reliability has been shattered by recurring fitness issues since the start of 2024.
Details of Mendy’s Latest Injury vs. Espanyol
Mendy had been in and out of the squad over the past few weeks due to minor setbacks. However, coach Alvaro Arbeloa decided to start him during Sunday night’s 2-0 victory over Espanyol. The gamble did not pay off; the left-back lasted only 10 minutes before pulling up mid-run, clutching his leg. He was immediately replaced by Fran Garcia.
According to Marca, Mendy will undergo surgery in the coming days for a hamstring tear in his right leg. While no official recovery timeline has been set, early estimates suggest a five-month layoff. This would keep the 30-year-old sidelined until at least October 2026.
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Transfer Implications: Mendy Stays, Fran Garcia Could Leave
Mendy’s long-term injury likely puts an end to Real Madrid’s hopes of selling him during the upcoming summer transfer window. With a contract running until 2028, the club will now have to manage his recovery into next season.
Interestingly, this situation might accelerate the departure of Fran Garcia. Reports suggest Garcia could leave the Santiago Bernabéu this summer, especially with the presence of Alvaro Carreras and a recovering Mendy in the left-back rotation.
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A Season to Forget: Statistics and Recovery Struggles
Mendy’s season ends with underwhelming numbers:
- Appearances: 9 total
- Minutes played: 448
- Total injuries this year: 5 separate incidents
This is a drastic decline from the previous season, where he made 31 appearances and crossed the 2,000-minute mark. His initial absence this year was part of a lingering recovery from a surgery he underwent last season, highlighting a vicious cycle of relapses.
120 Injuries in Two Seasons: What is Wrong at Real Madrid?
Mendy’s latest setback marks the 120th injury suffered by Real Madrid players over the last two campaigns. This alarming statistic has sparked internal debates regarding:
- The Bernabéu Pitch: Possible issues with the stadium’s playing surface.
- Physical Preparation: Concerns over the fitness coaching and medical staff’s methodology.
Mendy and Eder Militao are cited as prime examples of the club’s struggle to keep key stars fit. Militao also underwent surgery last week and is ruled out for five months, mirroring Mendy’s situation.
