Roma suffered a blow in their Champions League clash with Real Madrid as Manu Kone was forced off after just 17 minutes with an apparent muscle problem.
The France international pulled up at the Stadio Olimpico and could not continue, with Niccolò Pisilli sent on in his place.
It is a significant setback for Gian Piero Gasperini, who has made Kone a cornerstone of his midfield.
PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA – JUNE 22: Manu Kone #6 of France arrives at the stadium before the FIFA World Cup 2026 Group I match between France and Iraq at Philadelphia Stadium on June 22, 2026 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images)
Mbappé and France teammates check on Kone
Kone’s international colleagues in the Real Madrid side were quick to come to his aid. France captain Kylian Mbappé consoled the midfielder as he received treatment, while Ibrahima Konaté and Aurélien Tchouaméni also checked he was okay.
The latest problem extends a frustrating run of fitness issues for the 25-year-old. Last season he suffered a second-degree thigh strain against Milan in January and a second-degree hamstring tear against Bologna in March. He also asked to be substituted with a physical problem at Fenerbahçe on Champions League matchday one.