Mendy’s recovery step shines as Real Madrid endure a lost season

While Real Madrid’s 2025‑26 campaign has been described as a season to forget, French full‑back Ferland Mendy has taken a tangible step forward, returning to grass training after surgery and offering a glimmer of optimism for the struggling Merengues in Spain.

Although the season was a disappointment for the whole squad, Mendy endured a particularly poor 2025‑26, missing almost the entire campaign. The Frenchman was able to feature in just nine matches for Los Blancos.

He still featured in two crucial fixtures, against Manchester City and Bayern Munich, where his displays reassured the club. Those performances gave Real Madrid reason to believe the French defender could return to his best once injury‑free.

Mendy’s setback came on 11 May, when a hamstring injury against Espanyol in La Liga required surgery. The operation has since set the timetable for his rehabilitation.

According to Diario AS, he has already resumed training on grass, marking a significant milestone. However, he still has work to do before rejoining full sessions with his Real Madrid teammates.

Real Madrid’s medical report estimated a five‑month recovery period, projecting his return to competitive action in November.

Even when fit, Mendy will face stiff competition from Marc Cucurella, a key figure in Spain’s World Cup 2026 triumph. Alvaro Carreras also occupies the left‑back hierarchy, meaning Mendy must fight for a starting spot.

If he can quickly regain full fitness, Mendy could help Real Madrid add further silverware in the coming years. He already contributed to the club’s last two Champions League victories.