The arrival of Álvaro Carreras makes it clear that a problem needs to be solved. There is overbooking at left back and decisions need to be made. Neither Fran García nor Ferland Mendy want to leave the club, but one of them has to go. Both have contracts until 2027. Before the Club World Cup, it seemed clear that the Spanish full-back would be the chosen one, but his great performance in the tournament has convinced Xabi Alonso and everything could have changed.
Great World Cup for Fran García
During the Club World Cup, Xabi Alonso only had Fran García as his first-team left-back, who did not have the confidence of Carlo Ancelotti during the season, who preferred Mendy and even Camavinga in that position. The new coach trusted him and his gamble paid off as he enjoyed his best spell since joining Real Madrid.
He started every game and put in a more than acceptable performance. He looked more confident and less hesitant than during the season and contributed in attack. During the tournament, he spoke to the press about his performance. “Because of my style of play and my physical qualities, I try to give my best not only for myself but also for the team. I want to be ready every time I get the chance to play and help my teammates.
The situation I’m in today with the team is something you work for. Now that I have it, I want to take advantage of it, enjoy it, and give my best, both individually and collectively. I finished last year well, I think the feelings were good. We have to keep working, polishing things. It’s an evolution that we have to continue. We can all improve a little bit. If I do, the club will appreciate it, my teammates will too, and I’m sure we’ll do well.
Ferland Mendy and injuries
While one player is performing at his best, his teammate Ferland Mendy is struggling and spending more time in the infirmary than on the pitch.
Xabi Alonso has not yet been able to see him in action or in training. The player is willing to fight for his place as long as injuries spare him, something that has not happened this season. The full-back was returning from injury in the Copa del Rey final and Carlo Ancelotti pushed him hard due to his lack of confidence in Fran García.
The Frenchman lasted just eight minutes on the pitch. It was a relapse, as he suffered a rupture of the proximal tendon of the rectus femoris in his right quadriceps. The left-back underwent surgery and is still recovering. His recovery could be delayed until October, and there is talk that his problems could become chronic.
Real Madrid sets a starting price
Fran García’s performances in the Club World Cup have increased his value. The club would consider selling him for €25-30 million. There has been speculation about Milan’s interest in recent hours, so there is interest in the market, although he would not be the first option to leave the Whites, who are happy with his performance.
On the other hand, Real Madrid would consider selling Ferland Mendy for a price close to €14 million. He currently seems to be the most likely candidate to be sold, but the problem is that his constant injuries are not the best calling card.