Ferland Mendy’s new deal could make him a Real Madrid legend by 2027

Spanish newspaper AS has reported that Ferland Mendy, who joined Real Madrid in 2019, would prolong his stay at Real Madrid until 2027. The contract renewal, to be official anytime soon, is reportedly a foregone conclusion after Ancelotti picked Mendy as one of those who cannot miss in his plans. In fact, for Ancelotti, Mendy was an important defender as the contract extension of the full-back was considered to be one of the most important successes for Real Madrid.

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Ancelotti's confidence in Mendy

Since his arrival at Real Madrid, Carlo Ancelotti has made it clear that Ferland Mendy is a vital part of the backline. He speaks so much about the worth Mendy brings to the backline and how solid he is on the left side, nullifying any attack coming from the opponents. Renewing Mendy's contract up to 2027 simply confirms that Ancelotti sees him as a trusted defender for the next several years.

The thing is, to many, Mendy may not be known for goals and assists. However, in the way he seals up the back, his performance is simply top-notch. In the previous season, Mendy was one of Ancelotti's most-used players, having played more than 37 matches with important displays. These included a vital goal against Atlético Madrid in the Spanish Super Cup semifinals.

A strategic extension until 2027

By the time his contract expires, Mendy will already be 31 years old, at which age Real Madrid are more cautious when renewing players. Let's say from 2027 onward, Mendy may be able to sign one-year extensions, depending on his performance and what the club sees fit.

This is the frequent scheme adopted by veteran players at Real Madrid, but it also attests to the belief that the club has in what Mendy still has to offer. With his accumulated experience through the years in top-level competitions such as Champions League and LaLiga games, his importance in the squad will keep on rising.

Fran García's situation and squad implications

Mendy's renewal also links to the futures of other players in the squad. Fran García could be transferred or loaned out, being one of Real Madrid's promising young left-backs. The potential competition from Mendy against the anticipated arrival of Alphonso Davies could be immense for the position. Where García is talented, he may need to seek more playing time elsewhere if Mendy remained the preferred choice.

However, Davies' arrival doesn't send a threat to Mendy's position, according to current plans. The coach has indeed spoken of the fact that both could coexist together-one being more defensive and the other offering an attacking bent-Mendy for the more defensive role and Davies to attack. We will wait, of course, to see if this combination does come true and what effect it will have on the team's dynamics.

Mendy's stats: defensive, yet effective

The statistics of Mendy explain why Ancelotti cannot do without him. His game is not distinguished by assists or goals, but his work in defense is just excellent. Mendy is understood to 'kill' attacks on the left side, cuts off counterattacks, and positions almost perfectly during a match to help Real Madrid maintain a decent defensive line.

With 175 appearances for Real Madrid, Mendy is bound to soon surpass club legends like Ronaldo Nazário, who stopped at 177. On such a trajectory, he might also reach or even outdo the likes of Zinedine Zidane, on 227, and Luís Figo, on 245, to stand among the greats of the club's recent history.