Real Madrid suffer double blow as Mendy and Alaba face lengthy layoffs

MADRID: Real Madrid’s defensive ranks have been dealt a severe blow, with the club confirming on Tuesday that both Ferland Mendy and David Alaba are facing potentially season-ending injuries.

Mendy sustained a rupture in his right thigh during the Copa del Rey final defeat to Barcelona. The French left back, who has already endured multiple injury setbacks this season, could be out for up to a month, according to local media reports. Real Madrid stated, “Following tests carried out on our player Ferland Mendy… he has been diagnosed with a rupture of the proximal tendon of the anterior rectus in the right quadriceps.”

The 28-year-old previously missed significant time with a hamstring injury in March and a muscle issue in December, adding to his frustrating season.

Meanwhile, Austrian defender David Alaba was forced off due to injury during Madrid’s narrow 1–0 win over Getafe last week. The extent of Alaba’s issue has yet to be detailed, but concerns remain that he may also miss the remainder of the campaign.

With crucial matches looming, these absences pose a significant challenge for Carlo Ancelotti’s side.