🚨 Xabi Alonso has put the future of left-back Ferland Mendy at risk.
According to SPORT, Mendy, once hailed by outgoing manager Carlo Ancelotti as “the best defensive left-back in the world,” no longer fits into Alonso’s tactical vision.
Ancelotti’s support led to Mendy’s contract extension until 2028 with a significant salary increase, but Alonso’s preference for a 3-4-3 or 3-4-2-1 formation, which emphasizes wing-backs with strong attacking contributions, does not align with Mendy’s primarily defensive skill set.
Despite Mendy’s reputation as a solid and disciplined defender, his limited attacking output and history of injuries have made him a potential backup rather than a key starter.
Real Madrid are actively pursuing Benfica’s Alvaro Carreras, a 22-year-old Spanish left-back who fits Alonso’s dynamic wing-back profile, with negotiations aiming to secure him before the FIFA Club World Cup in June 2025.
If Carreras joins, either Mendy or Fran Garcia, who is seen as a better tactical fit due to his attacking instincts, could face departure.
The coming weeks will be critical for Mendy, who may need to seek regular playing time elsewhere if he cannot adapt to Alonso’s system.
