Real Madrid are in need of a spark after a difficult week. Following consecutive defeats to RCD Mallorca in La Liga and Bayern Munich in the Champions League, the pressure is on as they prepare to host Girona this Friday. Securing all three points is non-negotiable to keep their faint La Liga title hopes alive, and manager Carlo Ancelotti is set to receive a timely defensive boost.

According to reports from The Athletic, French left-back Ferland Mendy is expected to return to the squad for the crucial clash. Mendy has been sidelined for over three weeks with a hamstring injury sustained in the first leg of the Champions League quarter-final against Manchester City. His return is a significant development for a backline seeking stability.

The 30-year-old defender had only just returned from a previous issue, delivering strong performances against Celta Vigo and Manchester City before this latest setback. After training with the group this week and showing positive signs, the coaching staff now believes he is ready for a comeback. While he is unlikely to start against Girona, Mendy could see minutes off the bench to regain match sharpness.

This cautious approach highlights the bigger picture: Real Madrid is meticulously managing his fitness for the monumental second-leg showdown against Bayern Munich next Tuesday. Mendy's potential availability for both fixtures provides a major lift, offering Ancelotti a proven defensive option as the season reaches its most critical point. His return could be the key to solidifying Madrid's flank in their pursuit of silverware on two fronts.