Real Madrid has been dealt a blow ahead of its Champions League trip to Liverpool, as Argentine winger Franco Mastantuono will miss the match with a groin injury.

"Following tests carried out today on Franco Mastantuono by Real Madrid's medical department, the player has been diagnosed with pubalgia. His recovery will be monitored," the club confirmed on its website.

Pubalgia, sometimes referred to as a sports hernia, affects the lower abdomen and groin area and often results from the repeated twisting and turning motions common in football. The condition can be persistent and tricky to treat.

Barcelona's Lamine Yamal and Athletic Club's Nico Williams have both recently dealt with the same issue. While rest can provide temporary relief, symptoms often return under a heavy playing schedule, and surgery is sometimes required for full recovery.

Mastantuono, who joined Madrid from River Plate this summer, is certain to miss Tuesday's clash at Anfield and is also expected to be sidelined for this weekend's La Liga fixture against Rayo Vallecano.