Real Madrid star suffers an 'incurable' injury just like Yamal

Young prospect Franco Mastantuono suffered a groin injury on the eve of the Liverpool game, resulting in Real Madrid losing an important asset in their Champions League journey.

Real Madrid's week started off poorly as coach Xabi Alonso confirmed that Franco Mastantuono has a groin injury and will miss the upcoming away match at Anfield. The 18-year-old midfielder from Argentina did not participate in Monday morning's training session at the Valdebebas center, where the team held a closed practice to keep tactical plans confidential ahead of the Liverpool game.

According to MARCA, medical examinations revealed Mastantuono has pubic muscle inflammation—a common groin injury among young players. Although the injury is not severe, Real Madrid’s medical team recommends he rests for at least one match to prevent recurrence. As a result, the Argentine youngster will definitely miss the Liverpool game and is likely to be rested again for the weekend clash against Rayo Vallecano.

Previously, Mastantuono started and played the full 90 minutes in the victory over Valencia, though his performance was not particularly impressive. After the match, doctors found issues in his groin area that require close monitoring. This was the main reason Xabi Alonso decided not to risk playing him in the upcoming crucial game.

The more concerning aspect is the nature of the injury. Groin injuries often directly affect acceleration and agility—key strengths of Mastantuono. This situation is similar to Barcelona’s Lamine Yamal, who took nearly two months to recover and then struggled to regain his top form.

However, Mastantuono’s injury occurred during a period when Real Madrid can rotate their squad. He will have about three weeks off, including the international break, before returning for the match against Elche. If recovery goes well and he is not called up for Argentina, the 2007-born player could make his comeback by the end of this month.

Mastantuono joined Real Madrid from River Plate last summer and quickly proved his worth in Xabi Alonso’s squad. At only 18, he has appeared in 12 matches, scored once, and is seen as a promising young player expected to inherit the hardworking midfield role for Los Blancos.

Coach Alonso still has full confidence in his young player: “Mastantuono is a player with excellent tactical understanding and always gives his all. We won’t rush him; the most important thing is for him to return in the best possible physical condition.”

Mastantuono’s injury is certainly a significant loss for Real Madrid, especially as the team maintains a winning streak in the Champions League and prepares for a key encounter with Liverpool at Anfield. However, with a deep squad and strong performances from key players like Bellingham and Valverde, Los Blancos remain capable of sustaining their strength, while fans hope the young Argentine talent will recover soon to continue his promising development in white.

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