World Cup
Real Madrid's September hope for French left‑back Mendy
Real Madrid’s medical staff have indicated that French left‑back Ferland Mendy may resume training by late September, following the May operation that repaired a ruptured rectus femoris tendon which kept him out for the entire previous season as the club seeks stability.
Mundo Deportivo reported that Mendy is targeting a return towards the end of September. Earlier concerns had suggested the injury might keep him sidelined for much longer.
The French defender underwent surgery in May to repair a rupture of the rectus femoris tendon in his right leg. The operation followed a rupture that had kept him out for the entire previous campaign.
Real Madrid’s medical staff expressed satisfaction with the pace of his rehabilitation. The revised timeline replaces earlier fears of a much longer absence.
Mendy has entered a new stage of recovery, recently being seen jogging around the club’s Valdebebas training complex. He is gradually increasing his workload as part of the programme.
The 31‑year‑old’s presence on the training pitches signals that his rehabilitation remains on track. If progress continues, he could be available for team training before the end of September, earlier than first anticipated.
Returning to full fitness would mark an important milestone after a frustrating spell on the sidelines. Injuries have repeatedly interrupted his time at Real Madrid, preventing him from building the consistency that once made him a reliable defender.
Despite those setbacks, the coaching staff know exactly what the Frenchman can offer when fully fit. His experience and defensive qualities are valued by the squad, and his return could therefore be managed carefully to avoid overloading him.
Competition for the left‑back position has intensified, with Alvaro Carreras arriving last season and trying to establish himself. This summer Real Madrid added Marc Cucurella, a World Cup winner praised as one of Europe’s leading left‑backs, meaning Mendy is unlikely to be rushed into high‑profile fixtures immediately after his recovery.