Real Madrid receive major Ferland Mendy injury boost ahead of 2026/27 season

Real Madrid have received encouraging news on Ferland Mendy’s fitness, with the club confident the French defender could return earlier than initially anticipated ahead of the 2026/27 LaLiga campaign.

Mendy has been sidelined since undergoing surgery in May, with his original recovery timeline pointing towards a comeback between September and October. However, his rehabilitation has progressed positively, raising hopes that he could be available sooner than expected.

According to Marca, the left-back has already returned to training at Real Madrid’s Valdebebas facility as he continues his recovery under the supervision of head coach Jose Mourinho and the club’s medical staff.

The development provides a timely boost for Madrid, who have faced uncertainty at left-back heading into the new season.

Mourinho’s left-back dilemma

Mourinho is currently short of options in the position following Fran Garcia’s move to Real Betis, while new signing Marc Cucurella remains unavailable after an extended summer break following Spain’s success at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Alvaro Carreras is expected to begin the campaign as the first-choice left-back, with Cucurella set to compete for the role once he returns and regains full match fitness.

Despite being behind the duo in the immediate pecking order, Mendy remains a valuable option for the months ahead if he can maintain his recovery and prove his fitness.

The French international’s return could provide Mourinho with additional defensive depth during a demanding season featuring domestic and European commitments.

Future remains uncertain despite comeback boost

Mendy’s fitness has been a major concern over the past year, with recurring injury problems limiting his availability. However, his latest progress suggests he is now recovering towards the quicker end of the expected timeline.

Real Madrid could even consider giving him minutes before the September international break if he reaches full fitness, allowing him to gradually return to competitive action.

The defender’s long-term future at the Santiago Bernabeu, however, remains unclear. With Carreras and Cucurella expected to compete for the left-back position, the club could explore the possibility of selling Mendy during the January transfer window if he proves his fitness.