Ferland Mendy, a French left-back, earned a new contract after a strong Champions League campaign last season, and Carlo Ancelotti was commended for getting the most out of him. Many of Europe’s best players found it impossible to get past Mendy, a “shutdown” left-back.
That hasn’t been the case in recent months, as the Frenchman’s defense appears to be considerably weaker overall. However, Fran Garcia, an option, has been given more playing time, and MD believes he might eventually replace Mendy.
He has played more and displayed a great deal of quality in recent games. I really liked him. We must remember that we have another full-back in this position with whom we have won two Champions Leagues. In a recent news conference, Ancelotti said, “Mendy is an excellent full-back, and Fran can play when we need to be more offensive.”
Garcia has been on the field for just three of Real Madrid’s 20 goals this season, and he has started the team’s last three Liga games without giving up a goal. Garcia has played 690 minutes, earning 6 starts and 15 appearances, albeit that is partly because he has played many fewer minutes.
The secret to Ancelotti’s thinking is likely revealed in his response. Garcia starting for Los Blancos would be unexpected whenever they play major teams. Over the past 18 months, Garcia has been utilized rarely, and the Italian has trusted Mendy when everyone else at Real Madrid doubted him.
