Real Madrid’s Champions League preparations have taken a hit after teenage prodigy Franco Mastantuono was ruled out indefinitely with pubalgia, commonly known as a sports hernia.
The 18-year-old Argentine’s setback comes just days before Madrid’s highly anticipated European showdown with Liverpool, leaving head coach Xabi Alonso with an untimely selection dilemma.
Real Madrid confirms injury blow to Mastantuono
The club confirmed the news in an official statement, revealing that Mastantuono has been diagnosed with the painful condition following medical tests.
“Following tests carried out today on our player Franco Mastantuono by the Real Madrid Medical Services, he has been diagnosed with pubalgia. His recovery will be monitored,” the statement read.
Mastantuono sat out Madrid’s training sessions ahead of the trip to Anfield, instead undergoing personalized treatment at the Valdebebas Sports City under the supervision of the club’s medical team.
His absence is a major blow for both the player and Alonso. The Argentine teenager has quietly become one of Madrid’s most promising rotational options this season, offering creativity and energy in attack.
He has featured 12 times across all competitions, registering one goal and one assist — an impressive start to life at the Bernabéu, as cited by Transfermarkt.
However, his progress had already been slightly interrupted by the return of established names such as Jude Bellingham and Eduardo Camavinga, limiting his minutes in recent weeks.
Now, with the youngster sidelined indefinitely, Alonso will be forced to tweak his lineup to maintain attacking balance as Madrid chase European glory.
Is Mastantuono’s injury unique?
According to GOAL, Mastantuono’s injury is part of a growing trend across Europe, with several young players battling similar issues.
Barcelona’s Lamine Yamal, Athletic Bilbao’s Nico Williams, and Chelsea’s Cole Palmer have all struggled with pubalgia this season.
Williams, for instance, has been restricted to just 530 minutes of football this term and will also miss Bilbao’s upcoming Champions League tie against Newcastle United.
What is the treatment for pubalgia, and when is Mastantuono’s expected return?
The condition often stems from overuse, intense match schedules, or muscular imbalances — common in modern football’s demanding calendar.
Treatment typically involves rest, physiotherapy, and targeted strength work, with surgery considered only as a last resort.
No specific recovery timeline was provided, but the midfielder is expected to miss several weeks of action.
For Mastantuono, Real Madrid’s medical team are opting for a cautious recovery plan, emphasizing long-term health over rushing him back to action.
As Madrid prepare for another night under the Anfield lights, Alonso will have to navigate one of the toughest fixtures of the season without one of his brightest young talents.