Real Madrid defender enters final phase of recovery even as uncertainty looms over role | OneFootball

According to a report from AS, Ferland Mendy is entering the final stage of his recovery, and his return to action for Real Madrid now appears close. 

While the physical outlook is encouraging, the outlet mentions that questions remain over how Alvaro Arbeloa plans to use the defender once he is fully fit.

Within the club, the main objective is to avoid any kind of relapse, as after a difficult spell on the sidelines, the focus is understandably on a careful and controlled return. 

Despite the caution, the overall mood around Mendy’s recovery is positive, and there is growing optimism that he will soon be back in the squad.

Moment of uncertainty

The current plan is for Mendy to be included in the matchday list for the upcoming trip to Valencia at Mestalla. 

However, there is no expectation that he will start the match and the idea is to reintroduce him gradually, allowing him to build rhythm and confidence without taking unnecessary risks. 

Once he is fully available, he will have to compete for his place like everyone else in the squad.

Ferland Mendy is close to returning. (Photo by Aitor Alcalde/Getty Images)

The uncertainty surrounding his role is linked to a wider issue at left-back. What once looked like a well-covered position has now become a tactical puzzle. 

Even when natural options such as Fran Garcia and Alvaro Carreras have been available, Arbeloa has at times opted to use Eduardo Camavinga in that role.

Bad timing

In Arbeloa’s system, the full-backs often move into central areas during build-up, effectively acting as auxiliary midfielders. 

In that context, a player like Camavinga fits the profile. His ability on the ball and comfort in central zones make him a natural choice for that hybrid role.

However, the selection choices also suggest a deeper issue, which is a possible lack of confidence in the specialist left-backs. 

The repeated preference for a midfielder in that position points to doubts within the coaching staff about the reliability of the natural options.

With Mendy now approaching full fitness, his return will add another name to the competition, but it remains to be seen whether he will reclaim a regular starting spot or face the same uncertainty as the others.