Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelott is said to have come up with a solution after plans for a January reinforcement were put on hold. He will use Ferland Mendy as a distressed centre-back.
Real Madrid are in the midst of an injury crisis of epic proportions. After Eder Militao’s second ACL tear in as many seasons, Antonio Rudiger and the “unfavorable” Jesus Vallejo are the club’s only remaining healthy centre-backs.
Read: Leeds throw themselves into the race for “The Invisible Hero”
Manager Ancelotti had wanted to bring in signings in January to alleviate the problem, but Real Madrid bosses have made it clear to the Italian that they will try not to dive into the unpredictable winter market.
As a “club man”, Ancelotti has not caused a scene and has accepted this decision, forcing him to find internal solutions. While Aurelien Tchouameni and David Alaba are expected to return to full form in the coming weeks, the Italian also has youngster Raul Asencio at his disposal.
Should these options not prove enough, there is another player he can rely on if necessary.
At least that’s according to AS, who claim that Ancelotti has identified left-back Ferland Mendy as a player capable of stepping into a central position in the back line.
Read: 10 Best Male Tennis Players in History
Despite frequent rumours surrounding the 2025 signing of Alphonso Davies – which would threaten Mendy’s place – Ancelotti is a big fan of the Frenchman and called him the ‘best defensive left-back in the world’ last season.
As such, the coach is now convinced that he has the ability to play as a ‘wildcard’ centre-back. In fact, the Spanish outlet suggests that Mendy is already ahead of the aforementioned Vallejo in that position.
“The feeling is that Ancelotti would rather put Mendy out of position than play Vallejo,” the report says. “He has lost all confidence in his qualities, which was evident when, against Osasuna, a youth player jumped onto the pitch in front of him. He doesn’t count.”
Read: Erling Braut Haaland’s condition to renew with Manchester City
