Mourinho confirms Ferland Mendy returns to group training at Real Madrid

Ferland Mendy has returned to the training pitch at Real Madrid. José Mourinho announced it on Friday at a press conference: “(Ferland) Mendy will train on the pitch with us for the first time.” A significant milestone for the French left-back, who has been absent from action since May 3.

On that day, during the match against Espanyol Barcelona, Mendy had to leave the field just minutes after kickoff, suffering acute pain in his right thigh. The diagnosis revealed a right femoral tendon injury — a setback in an already weakened area — requiring surgery. Recovery was estimated at five months.

While returning to group training marks an encouraging step, the 31-year-old is not yet available for competition. According to AS, several milestones remain: medical clearance and confirmation of optimal physical condition. The date of his return to match play therefore remains undetermined.

Mendy will also have to contend with increased competition on his preferred flank. Real Madrid signed Marc Cucurella this summer, World Cup champion with Spain, to occupy the left wing. The French left-back, who has earned ten caps with France, will need to convince Mourinho to trust him in a sector now heavily contested.