Ferland Mendy ruled out as Real Madrid face key Champions League clash

Real Madrid left-back Ferland Mendy will miss Tuesday’s Champions League tie against Atalanta after suffering a thigh injury during Saturday’s 3-0 La Liga victory over Girona.

The French international was substituted in the second half, and subsequent medical tests revealed a muscular injury to his right quadriceps. “Following tests carried out on Ferland Mendy today by Real Madrid’s medical department, the player has been diagnosed with a muscular injury to his right quadriceps,” the club confirmed in a statement.

Although Real Madrid did not specify a timeline for Mendy’s recovery, Spanish media report he could be sidelined for several weeks. The defender is set to miss crucial domestic fixtures against Rayo Vallecano and Sevilla, as well as the Intercontinental Cup final on December 18.

Real Madrid, who have lost three of their first five Champions League group games, will also be without Dani Carvajal, Eder Militao, Eduardo Camavinga, and David Alaba for the Atalanta clash. However, Brazilian forwards Vinicius Junior and Rodrygo Goes are expected to return, while Carlo Ancelotti confirmed Jude Bellingham would be available despite sustaining a minor knock against Girona.

Madrid’s injury woes add to the pressure as they seek to avoid an early Champions League exit.

(Source: AFP)