Real Madrid have constantly dealt with injuries this season and it's been a massive issue for the La Liga giants. The likes of Dani Carvajal, Antonio Rudiger and David Alaba have all been sidelined for significant periods.
Kylian Mbappe started the season on the sidelines with a knee sprain and missed two games. The French forward rushed to get back which spoke volumes of just how poorly handled players' fitness has been this season.
Reports claim that Dean Huijsen and Raul Asencio have been playing through pain in recent weeks. But there is good news regarding Ferland Mendy who has endured constant injury problems for several years.
Ferland Mendy set to return
The French left-back has appeared just three times this season due to thigh and muscular problems. There have been reports suggesting when he signed a new deal back in September 2024 a doctor was stunned and called it a "miracle" he could still play football.
Mendy's recurring injury struggles have been a massive concern for the player and the club. But this weekend, the Frenchman could make his first appearance since a 21-minute cameo outing in a 2-1 win over Atletico Madrid in the Supercopa de Espana in early January.
According to Marca (via Madrid Xtra), Mendy is back and available, which is a massive boost for Alvaro Arbeloa. The 30-year-old's experience could be vital in the final stretch of a season that must end on a positive note for Arbeloa to be considered for the full-time managerial role.
Mendy has been with Madrid since the summer of 2019 when he arrived from Lyon in a €48 million deal. He has made 204 appearances and won 11 major trophies including three La Liga titles and two Champions League trophies.
Mendy is in last chance saloon
Madrid's decision to hand Mendy a contract extension was met with scrutiny because of his injury record at the time. There's no doubting his footballing ability but he just can't seem to shake off his fitness troubles.
If he can remain fit for the remainder of the season and plays an important role in Arbeloa's team that will come as a relief for Los Blancos. But if he once again spends time on the sidelines it might be time to cut ties this summer.
Mendy might not even be a starter under Arbeloa with Alvaro Carreras available and performing well since arriving at the Bernabeu last summer. But there is a clear need for more options at this stage of the season.