Real Madrid player Mikael Jantunen suffered a fascia injury during a 95–76 EuroLeague victory against Fenerbahçe at the Movistar Arena, raising immediate concerns within the coaching staff. Pedro Martínez confirmed after the game that the Finnish player’s outlook is uncertain following a sudden exit in the second quarter.

Pedro Martínez Warns of Uncertain Outlook After Movistar Arena Exit

The incident occurred in the second quarter. The forward felt an immediate sensation in his foot and signaled for a substitution almost instantly, limped gingerly to the bench for a preliminary medical evaluation, and retreated to the locker room before halftime. He did not return for the second half of the contest.

Speaking to reporters in Madrid, Martínez delivered a blunt assessment of the situation. It’s a fascia problem and it doesn’t look very good, Martínez stated. The coach added that medical staff will conduct tests to determine the precise damage, though he ruled the player out for upcoming fixtures. We don’t know the extent of the injury, but I don’t think he will play this Sunday or next week, Martínez said.

Parallel Concerns and Roster Depth Under Pressure

The injury draws immediate parallels to the physical status of Nick Smith Jr., who also missed the Fenerbahçe fixture after sitting out a previous match in Vitoria. Martínez noted that while both players are dealing with fascia discomfort, the clinical severity differs significantly depending on whether the tissue sustained a partial or complete tear.

Detailing the comparison, Martínez explained that Smith avoided a complete tear. The injury is very similar, but it’s not the same if the fascia has torn completely. It depends on each player, Martínez said. Nick didn’t rupture his, which seems like good news. We don’t believe it’s going to be a very long-term absence. With Jantunen, we must wait until tomorrow.

The potential absence of Jantunen follows his foot fascia injury suffered during the Real Madrid match against Fenerbahce. The club secured a victory by overcoming a sluggish start against Fenerbahçe, relying on second-half adjustments and key contributions from Facundo Campazzo, Alberto Abalde, and Luwawu-Cabarrot to alter the defensive rhythm.

Medical Evaluation Schedule and Upcoming Fixtures

Real Madrid medical personnel have scheduled diagnostic evaluations to examine the fascia in Jantunen’s foot. The results of these scans will dictate the outlook for the Finland international.