Paddy McCarthy faces extended absence after injuring opposite foot in Champions Cup final

Paddy McCarthy’s season is over after the Leinster loosehead prop sustained a foot injury during the province’s 41-19 Champions Cup final defeat to Bordeaux-Bèglès in Bilbao, the club confirmed. The 22-year-old had only just returned from four months out following surgery on his right foot, making the timing of the setback particularly cruel.

McCarthy came off the bench after an hour, replacing Andrew Porter, but lasted fewer than 10 minutes before leaving the field. He was spotted on crutches after the final whistle, and later confirmed on social media that he had injured his other foot — not the one that had kept him sidelined since January.

“Thanks to Darren Kickey for getting me back in time for the final,” McCarthy wrote. “Always proud to play for this club. Unfortunately hurt the other foot today. We go again now…”

The injury is a blow not only to Leinster but potentially to Ireland’s summer schedule. The four-cap international’s availability for Andy Farrell’s squad in July — when Ireland face Australia, Japan and New Zealand in the Nations Championship — remains unclear at this stage.

For Leinster, the focus now shifts to the United Rugby Championship, where they host the Lions in a quarter-final on Saturday. Head coach Leo Cullen will need to steady a squad still absorbing a fourth Champions Cup final defeat in five seasons. On a more positive note, the club confirmed that winger Joshua Kenny and lock Brian Deeny are both available after missing the Bilbao final.