Real Madrid resumed their campaign after the two-week Christmas break last night as they secured a hard-fought 1-0 win over RC Mallorca.
It was a much-needed win for Los Blancos as it allowed them to continue as the league leaders in Spain, ahead of Girona even though the two teams are level on points.
But the work does not stop for Carlo Ancelotti and his men as they are set to face minnows Arandina in the Copa del Rey clash later this weekend.
Ferland Mendy still not back in group training
As such, Real Madrid players were back at the Valdebebas training facility today to start preparations for the upcoming cup tie, which will be a true David vs Goliath affair.
And while Ancelotti had the services of most of his players, Ferland Mendy was still not a part of the group, as reported by Guillermo Rai.
The Frenchman picked up yet another injury when Madrid hosted Villarreal, and was substituted off in their 4-1 win for Fran Garcia. The Spaniard went to provide the assist for Brahim Diaz’s goal, taking his tally up to four for the season in the league.
Mendy should have reason to worry given Garcia’s form, who has proven his worth in the limited minutes he has played with los blancos this season.
And while Ancelotti still prefers Mendy as the first-choice, that may not be the case starting next season as Madrid push to sign a left-back.
Operation Alphonso
With the left-back market scarce and low in terms of quality and quantity, Real Madrid are pushing to sign Alphonso Davies from Bayern Munich.
The Canadian is out of a contract in 2025, and is excited about the chance to join Madrid this summer, as per previous reports.
Bayern will definitely try to convince him to sign an extension, but it seems unlikely that they will be able to convince him to not join Madrid.