Real Madrid have suffered a major injury blow just days before facing Liverpool in the Champions League. Below you will see inormation about this news which has been summarized The Football Insight.
Young Argentine talent Franco Mastantuono has been ruled out indefinitely due to pubalgia a painful groin condition that affects many elite footballers. The club confirmed the diagnosis in a short statement and said his recovery will be closely monitored.
The timing could not be worse. Mastantuono had become an important rotation option for Xabi Alonso, appearing 12 times across competitions with a goal and an assist. His dynamic play between midfield and attack offered Madrid fresh energy in games where quick movement was needed.
He did not travel or train with the squad at Valdebebas before the trip to England, instead working separately under the medical team. With no return date set, both player and club now face a period of uncertainty at a crucial stage of the season.
A Tough Injury to Predict
Pubalgia, also known as a sports hernia, is a complicated injury affecting the groin and abdominal muscles. It usually develops in players who sprint, twist, and change direction frequently — making footballers especially vulnerable.
Recovery is unpredictable. Some athletes return in weeks, others in months, and the condition often flares up again if not treated carefully. Rest, physiotherapy, and strengthening exercises are essential, while surgery is only considered if nothing else works.
Mastantuono is not alone in facing this issue. Barcelona’s Lamine Yamal, Athletic Bilbao’s Nico Williams, and Chelsea’s Cole Palmer have also struggled with pubalgia recently. These cases show how challenging it can be for young players still adapting to high physical demands.
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Alonso’s Tactical Plan Without Him
With Mastantuono out, Xabi Alonso must rethink his starting options for the Anfield showdown. Rodrygo is the most likely replacement on the right side, offering European experience and goal-scoring threat. His movement will be vital against Liverpool’s aggressive defense.
Another possible choice is Arda Guler, who brings creativity when cutting inside. Eduardo Camavinga could also play higher up the pitch if Alonso prioritizes pressing and defensive structure.
Madrid are already dealing with injuries to Dani Carvajal, Antonio Rudiger, and David Alaba, which means maintaining balance between attack and defense will be key. Alonso skipped a training session at Anfield, choosing to keep preparations focused in Madrid before traveling.
A Breakthrough Season Paused
This setback interrupts what was becoming a promising first year in Europe for Mastantuono. Since arriving from River Plate, he has won fans over with his confidence, technical skill, and maturity far beyond his age.
Madrid must now protect his long-term development. Young players returning too early from pubalgia often face repeated pain, so the medical staff will avoid rushed decisions. The focus is on ensuring his body adapts properly to the demands of top-level football.
As Madrid chase trophies on multiple fronts, squad depth will be tested again. Alonso still has star power available but losing Mastantuono removes a valuable spark from the team just as major challenges arrive. Follow footballcoasters.co.uk for weekly deep dives into football’s biggest story.