Mendy reaches rehab milestone as Real Madrid eye his return

Ferland Mendy has cleared a key rehabilitation stage, with manager José Mourinho confirming on Friday that the French left‑back will train on the pitch with his Real Madrid teammates for the first time since his injury on 3 May.

First team training confirmed

At a press conference, Mourinho summed up the update: “Mendy will train on the field with us for the first time.” The announcement marks the end of a period spent on individual work away from the squad.

Injury background

Mendy suffered a sharp pain in his right thigh during a match against Espanyol in Cornellà, forcing him off after a few minutes. Scans revealed a tear of the right femoral tendon, and he underwent surgery a week later. Initial estimates suggested roughly five months out.

Previous similar setback

The injury affects the same area that troubled him in 2025 during the Coupe du Roi final against FC Barcelona, a problem that also required an operation. This medical history explains the cautious approach taken by the Madrid staff.

Mourinho says Ferland Mendy back in training as Real’s ranks grow

Path to full fitness

Returning to the grass does not equate to match readiness; Mendy must still pass several medical clearances and regain competitive rhythm. By early September he was still following a personalised programme, while other injured players had already resumed collective training.

Squad competition

His comeback will be contested by increased competition on the left flank, notably Marc Cucurella, who joined the club this summer. Nevertheless, Mourinho has no incentive to accelerate Mendy's timetable.

The manager has bolstered injury monitoring since arriving at Valdebebas, ensuring a thorough recovery process. Mendy has not featured since 3 May and still faces several steps before earning a match‑day squad place.