Real Madrid coaching staff has doubts about veteran star returning after lengthy layoff | OneFootball

According to journalist Guillermo Rai via The Athletic, there are growing doubts within Xabi Alonso’s coaching staff regarding Ferland Mendy’s future role at Real Madrid.

After more than six months away from the pitch, the French defender finds himself facing uncertainty about his place in the team. 

His return to full fitness has been positive, but his standing within the squad has weakened during his lengthy absence.

Mendy, who last featured for Real Madrid back in April under former manager Carlo Ancelotti, underwent surgery soon after, followed by a six-month recovery period. 

The rehabilitation went as expected, but it was emphasised that the player needed to build muscle mass before being reintegrated into competitive football. 

Having now reached full fitness, Mendy is determined to avoid any setbacks, particularly another relapse that could derail his progress once again.

Not an easy way in

However, regaining a starting role under Alonso will not be easy as the arrival of Alvaro Carreras from Benfica has complicated matters further. 

Ferland Mendy is in a very difficult situation right now. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)

With Carreras and Fran Garcia already established in the squad, Alonso’s staff reportedly view Mendy as the third-choice left-back for now. 

His opportunities will depend entirely on his physical evolution and whether he can remain injury-free in the coming weeks.

Despite these challenges, Mendy’s camp remains composed. They believe the player is finally following the correct recovery plan, something they feel should have happened earlier in his rehabilitation process. 

Future in open

Meanwhile, there has been no official communication from Real Madrid regarding their long-term intentions for the defender, leaving his future open-ended.

For Mendy, this stage represents a defining moment in his Real Madrid career. 

His physical response, consistency, and ability to adapt to Alonso’s tactical system will determine whether he can reclaim his former prominence or gradually fade from the club’s plans. 

After years of ups and downs, the 2025/26 season could decide which version of Mendy Madridistas see, the one who once dominated the left flank or a player fighting to stay relevant.