Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti is reportedly planning to utilize Ferland Mendy’s defensive skills to mark Barcelona’s Lamine Yamal in the Copa del Rey final.
Mendy, who has been out for six weeks with an injury, returned to training on Tuesday, and Ancelotti believes he could be fit in time for the match.
Mendy, of Senegalese descent, has been a key figure in Real Madrid’s defense.
His potential return is timely, as the team faces the challenge of containing Barcelona’s rising star, Lamine Yamal.
Yamal, a 17-year-old forward of Moroccan and Equatoguinean heritage, has been one of the standout performers for Barcelona this season.
His pace and creativity have posed significant challenges for defenders across the league.
Ancelotti sees Mendy as one of the best defending full-backs in the world and thinks he would be the best option to contain Yamal’s attacking threat.
If Mendy is not fit, Fran Garcia may have to start at left-back. Garcia has been a reliable deputy this season, but facing Yamal would be a significant test of his defensive capabilities.
Meanwhile, Eduardo Camavinga and David Alaba have picked up new injuries, further complicating Ancelotti’s team selection.
Camavinga is expected to miss the remainder of the season due to a torn adductor tendon, while Alaba’s participation in the final is uncertain as he continues to recover from a muscle issue.
Despite these setbacks, Ancelotti remains optimistic about his team’s prospects.
Real Madrid will train at Valdebebas on Friday morning before flying to Seville for an evening session at La Cartuja.
