Good news for Real Madrid: Mendy back... 170 days later!

And the missing man... has reappeared. After 170 days away. That’s how long it’s been since that fateful Copa del Rey final at La Cartuja — that Clásico, back on April 26. 

When Mendy went down in the 10th minute, asked to be subbed off, and began a long road: rupture, surgery... and nearly six months out. Until today. He trained with the group for the first time — boots on, grass underfoot, ball at his feet. He’s still not ready to play, but he’s close. Very close. He’s targeting El Clásico.

It’s been five months and 17 days since then. Mendy’s recovery has been something out of The X-Files. He suffered a rupture of the proximal tendon of the rectus femoris in his right quadriceps — an injury that required surgery performed by Dr. Leyes and overseen by Real Madrid’s medical staff. The club estimated a 10- to 12-week absence — meaning he’d miss the Club World Cup but return in time for the new season. That prediction didn’t pan out.

Long recovery time for Mendy

The injury took longer than expected to heal, and Mendy needed time to regain full strength — and confidence. Instead of 12 weeks, it’s been 20. Nearly half a year away from the pitch. Until Tuesday. He trained with the group again — and completed the full session. He’s been cleared medically. Now it’s just about regaining match rhythm.

Real Madrid injury report

Mastantuono trained separately, but the club has ruled out any injury. It’s just a muscle overload, and he’ll be available against Getafe. The confirmed absences are Carvajal (aiming for El Clásico), Trent (hoping to make El Clásico), Huijsen (definitely out vs. Getafe, but looking ahead to Juventus), and Rüdiger (still not ready). Mbappé did not train today, but there’s no cause for concern — it was a rest day. He’ll also be available for Getafe.

Here’s how things are looking for the injured players and when they might be back.

Carvajal: El Clásico

Trent: El Clásico?

Huijsen: Juventus?

Rüdiger: ?

Mendy: Imminent

Mastantuono: Getafe

Mbappé: Getafe

Crowded lineup at Real Madrid

The only real question is when Mendy will return — but it’s imminent. Getafe... Juventus... or El Clásico. Almost certainly one of those three. The priority is being 100% fit for Barcelona, though a return at the Coliseum isn’t ruled out if he feels ready during the week. His comeback will create the expected logjam at left back: Carreras, Ferland, and Fran García, all fighting for one spot. That’s the new reality. Life, 170 days later.