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Mendy is a reliable defensive anchor for Real Madrid in big matches. |
Ferland Mendy continues to be a special case at Real Madrid. The French defender is frequently sidelined by injury, but whenever he returns, he proves his defensive value is among the rarest in European football.
According to Opta statistics, the last player to dribble past Mendy in a one-on-one situation was a Girona player in a La Liga match in December 2024. Since then, Mendy has played 21 official matches for Real Madrid in La Liga, the Copa del Rey, the Spanish Super Cup, and the Champions League without being beaten by any opponent in a similar situation.
That's an impressive number considering Mendy has almost never been able to maintain a consistent playing rhythm. This season, he's repeatedly suffered muscle aches and rarely played more than two games in a row. After each return, the worry of injury resurfaces.
In the clash against Manchester City at the Bernabeu, Mendy played outstandingly in the first half but had to leave the field early due to another injury. Then followed the familiar cycle: rest, recovery, and preparation for the next big game.
This inconsistency has forced coach Alvaro Arbeloa to rotate with Carreras and Fran Garcia on the left flank. However, whenever Mendy is fit enough for big matches, confidence almost always rests on his side.
At the Allianz Arena midweek, Mendy was included in the starting lineup against Bayern Munich despite lacking match fitness. His direct opponent was Michael Olise, one of the best-performing wingers this season. However, the Bayern star was unable to get past Mendy even once in one-on-one situations.
Real Madrid were ultimately eliminated by Eduardo Camavinga's red card and two late goals. But the left flank wasn't their weak point in Munich. On the contrary, it was one of the few areas that offered solidity.
Mendy, therefore, remains a unique paradox at Real Madrid. His body is fragile in the face of a demanding schedule, yet he is almost invincible when it comes to crucial matches. Few players perform as regularly as he does, but even fewer defenders inspire such great confidence.
Source: https://znews.vn/nghich-ly-cua-mendy-o-real-madrid-post1644440.html
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