Real Madrid have suffered a new setback ahead of the decisive stretch of the season, as Ferland Mendy has sustained a hamstring injury and will be sidelined for at least a week, pending further medical tests in the coming days. The absence represents a significant blow for coach Álvaro Arbeloa, especially after the left back had recently regained an important role in his plans.

Mendy had started last weekend’s match in Vigo and was again in the lineup against Manchester City, with Álvaro Carreras unavailable due to a minor muscle problem. The French defender had gradually overtaken the Spanish full back in the pecking order, and his place in the starting eleven for the Champions League clash seemed certain after the match in Vigo.

However, Mendy was forced to leave the field at halftime during the demanding encounter with Manchester City after feeling discomfort, despite delivering a solid defensive display on the left flank. He was replaced by Fran García for the second half.

Initially, the club described the issue as a “cramp,” suggesting the substitution had been planned due to Mendy’s limited playing time in recent months. After the match, though, Arbeloa hinted that the situation might be more serious, casting doubt on the defender’s availability for the return leg at the Etihad Stadium.

That concern has now been confirmed. Mendy will miss the trip to Manchester, making the recovery of Carreras the immediate priority for the coaching staff. The Spanish defender is still dealing with a calf injury and has already been ruled out of Saturday’s match against Elche.

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