FC Lorient right-back Houboulang Mendes is continuing his recovery process after another frustrating injury setback, as the defender remains sidelined with a knee sprain sustained a month ago. However, there is finally some encouraging news for both the player and the club, with a return to full team training expected as early as next week, according to reports from Ouest-France.
The 21-year-old has endured a particularly challenging period marked by repeated physical problems just as he appeared ready to reestablish himself in the squad. After spending months recovering from a serious injury, Mendes was on the verge of making his competitive comeback when he suffered a sprain in his other knee. The timing was especially unfortunate, halting his progress once again and delaying his long-awaited return to action.
Nine months earlier, Mendes had already faced a major setback when he tore the anterior cruciate ligament in his right knee during a match against AC Ajaccio in early February. The injury occurred in a narrow 1-0 encounter and immediately ruled him out for the remainder of the season. It was a devastating blow for the young defender, who had been enjoying steady development and gaining valuable playing time with the first team. The lengthy rehabilitation that followed required patience and determination, as he worked tirelessly to regain his strength and fitness.
Just as he seemed close to completing that recovery and rejoining the squad, the sprain to his other knee forced him back into individual rehabilitation. Since then, Mendes has been training separately from the group, focusing on rebuilding muscle strength and ensuring full stability before resuming collective sessions. His coach, Christophe Pélissier, remains cautiously optimistic, suggesting that the defender could soon return to normal training if progress continues without complications.
A product of the club’s youth academy, Mendes represents one of Lorient’s promising homegrown talents. His rise through the ranks earned him a professional contract in July 2018, when he signed a four-year deal tying him to the club until 2022. Known for his athleticism, defensive reliability, and ability to contribute offensively from the right flank, he quickly earned the trust of the coaching staff. He made his first start during the second league match of the season against Châteauroux, helping his side secure a 2-1 victory and demonstrating his potential at right-back.
Before his injuries, Mendes had already accumulated 22 appearances in a Lorient shirt, gaining valuable experience and establishing himself as a regular option in the squad. His absence has been felt, as Lorient lost both depth and youthful energy in defense. A full return would not only boost the team’s options but also allow the player to continue his development after a prolonged interruption.
For Mendes, the coming weeks will be crucial. Returning to team training marks an important step, but careful management will be essential to avoid further setbacks. After months of frustration, the young defender will hope to finally put his injury troubles behind him and focus on reclaiming his place on the pitch with Les Merlus.
