Real Madrid veteran faces year-plus absence after latest injury blow – report

Real Madrid defender Ferland Mendy suffered another injury in the match against Espanyol, with diagnosis confirming a rectus femoris tear that is expected to sideline him for more than a year. The French left-back has endured persistent injury troubles throughout his career, and this latest setback represents a major blow to Madrid's defensive lineup.

Injury Details

Mendy's injury occurred during last weekend's league match, when he was forced off the pitch mid-game. Following detailed examination, Madrid's medical team confirmed the rectus femoris tear, with surgery scheduled for the coming weeks. Based on typical recovery timelines for similar injuries, Mendy is likely to miss the remainder of this season and potentially part of next season as well.

Career Injury History

The 27-year-old French international has been plagued by injury setbacks since joining Madrid in 2019. He has suffered multiple muscle injuries and undergone two surgical procedures. This season, his league availability has fallen below 30 percent, with severely limited playing time. Madrid's hierarchy had hoped he could finally overcome his injury troubles, but those hopes have now faded.

Test for Madrid's Defense

Mendy's extended absence will leave Madrid critically short on options at left-back. The squad has limited depth at the position, forcing manager Carlo Ancelotti to reconfigure his defensive setup. With multiple competitions stretching the squad thin, Madrid's backline depth will face a serious test, and the club may need to pursue a solution in the winter transfer window.