Real Madrid suffers a setback from Argentina ahead of El Clasico

Real Madrid is at risk of losing one of its main players when La Liga resumes, after Franco Mastantuono had to pull out from Argentina’s national team squad because of a muscle strain.

The Argentine Football Association (AFA) confirmed that Real Madrid’s young winger is experiencing muscle overload in his left thigh and will return to Spain for treatment. AFA stated: "Franco Mastantuono will miss the remainder of the tour due to left thigh muscle overload. Meanwhile, captain Lionel Messi will also be absent from the upcoming match."

Previously, Mastantuono was among the 12 Real Madrid players called up for international duty following their 3–1 victory over Villarreal last weekend. The 17-year-old star was expected to help La Albiceleste face Venezuela and Puerto Rico in two friendlies this October.

Mastantuono’s absence is disappointing news for coach Lionel Scaloni, especially since the player recently received the number 10 jersey formerly worn by Lionel Messi during the previous call-up. This is seen as a sign of the trust Argentina places in this young talent.

According to plans, Mastantuono will undergo thorough medical examinations by Real Madrid’s staff upon his return to Madrid. He has played 405 minutes in La Liga this season, contributing significantly to the Royal Club’s impressive start under Xabi Alonso’s management.

Real Madrid’s situation becomes even more concerning as Kylian Mbappe has also encountered issues during his call-up with the French national team. The 26-year-old star suffered a recurrence of an ankle injury in the 3–0 victory over Azerbaijan and voluntarily left the field early following coach Didier Deschamps' advice.

The potential simultaneous loss of two key attackers, Mbappe and Mastantuono, poses a difficult challenge for Los Blancos in the coming period. The Royal Club is about to enter a crucial series of matches against Juventus in the Champions League and El Clásico against Barcelona within less than three weeks.

With his explosive form, Mbappe has scored 17 goals in his last 13 matches, while Mastantuono is emerging as a “raw gem” on the right wing. Real Madrid will certainly hope both recover quickly to return to the strongest lineup as the season reaches its decisive phase.

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