Real Madrid boss Xabi Alonso has delivered a decisive verdict on the future of Ferland Mendy, officially ruling the French defender out of his long-term plans. Despite Mendy’s contract running until 2027, Alonso has deemed him tactically incompatible with his dynamic 3-4-2-1 system.
Key Updates:
Ferland Mendy OUT of FIFA Club World Cup (June 15–July 13)
Xabi Alonso drops Mendy from future plans
Alvaro Carreras (Benfica) is incoming for under €50M
Fran Garcia’s future also in doubt
Why Mendy’s Time Is Up:
Injuries & inconsistency plagued his 2024/25 season.
Lacks the attacking prowess Alonso demands from his full-backs.
Club open to offers but face difficulty due to wages and contract length.
Carreras Deal Close:
22-year-old Carreras has impressed at Benfica with his speed, offensive intelligence, and flexibility.
Real Madrid are negotiating a fee below his €50 million release clause.
Seen as the ideal long-term successor, capable of thriving in Alonso’s aggressive wing-back setup.
What This Means:
Fran Garcia, currently second-choice, is on borrowed time and must impress during the Club World Cup or risk being offloaded.
Mendy’s departure would close a mixed chapter at Madrid, where despite winning major trophies, his offensive limitations and recurring injuries proved costly.
Xabi Alonso is not hesitating—his vision is youthful, bold, and tactically sophisticated, and this full-back restructuring is just the beginning. Expect more surgical changes as Real Madrid prepare
to reassert dominance across Europe.
