Jose Mourinho Excludes Ferland Mendy from Real Madrid’s Champions League Squad
Ferland Mendy has been excluded from Real Madrid's Champions League squad for the upcoming season by manager Jose Mourinho. Despite being a key player, the French defender, who faced an injury near the end of last season, does not appear on the official UEFA list submitted by the club.
Other Injured Players Included
Mourinho’s decision is surprising considering other injured first-team members like Eder Militao and Rodrygo have been named in the European squad. Their inclusion suggests a strategic approach to managing squad depth and fitness ahead of a demanding European campaign.
Youth Players Add Depth to the Squad
The List A submitted by Mourinho features mostly expected names, but List B shows a strong presence of young talent from Real Madrid Castilla. Eleven youth players have been registered, including new signing Sergio Martinez, who wears number 38. Promising goalkeepers such as Sergio Mestre and Javi Navarro, along with defenders like Fortea and Joan Martinez, are set to provide important backup options.
Focus Shifts Back to La Liga
With the Champions League squad finalized, Real Madrid now turns attention to their domestic challenges. Mourinho’s side is preparing for a tough match against Real Betis at La Cartuja stadium. New faces like Sergio Martinez have already received senior team call-ups. Meanwhile, Mendy will remain sidelined, concentrating on his recovery as the team faces intense competition in La Liga.
- Date: 4 September 2026
- Next Champions League Fixture: Real Madrid vs Inter Milan at Santiago Bernabeu
- La Liga Fixture: Real Madrid vs Real Betis, 4 September 2026, 21:00
