Florentino Perez watching: UCL clash vs Man City could decide the future of Real Madrid star | OneFootball

Real Madrid are gearing up for arguably their most important match of the season as they take on Manchester City at the Etihad tonight.

Having lost the Super Cup to Barcelona and been knocked out of the Copa Del Rey, securing the Champions League title is a non-negotiable for Los Blancos this season.

However, in Man City, Real Madrid have a foe who are more than capable of beating them. The focus, therefore, should be on defensive solidity, although the ongoing injury crisis in defence doesn’t make things easier.

Among many absentees, the loss of Alvaro Carreras could be key as Real Madrid lack any reliable alternative. Coach Alvaro Arbeloa certainly doesn’t trust Fran Garcia, which means Ferland Mendy could start against City.

A big match for Mendy

According to Defensa Central, this promises to be an important game for Ferland Mendy, as his performance on the night could dictate his future.

Ferland Mendy faces a litmus test against Man City. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)

Indeed, Real Madrid’s president, who is not happy with the team right now, will be closely monitoring Mendy’s performance against Man City.

The Frenchman is already on thin ice, having struggled with injuries throughout the majority of his career at Santiago Bernabeu.

The report adds that if Mendy can impress tonight in the absence of Carreras, he will be guaranteed a start in the second leg.

From thereon, the fullback will receive a second chance to prove himself. But if he fails tonight, Real Madrid would strongly reconsider his future at the club.

This is an important game for Garcia as well, as Mendy potentially performing well against City could convince Real Madrid to offload him instead, as he is already behind Mendy in the pecking order.

Real Madrid, meanwhile, are also banking on yet another player in the form of Vinicius Jr., whose contributions up front could be key in the absence of Kylian Mbappe.