Is Mastantuono the Next Big Star for Real Madrid?

Franco Mastantuono, at just 18 years old, has made history as the youngest player to start a Champions League game for Real Madrid. His journey from aspiring YouTube star and talented tennis player to football prodigy showcases not only his exceptional skill but also the deep-rooted passion for the sport that has driven his success.

Last updated: 24 October 2023 (BST)

• Franco Mastantuono is the youngest player to start a Champions League match for Real Madrid.
• He joined Real Madrid from River Plate for a reported £54 million, a record sale for Argentine football.
• Mastantuono has already made an impact in La Liga, starting in two games and coming off the bench in another.
• His football skills were honed alongside a promising tennis career, showcasing his athletic versatility.
• He has three senior caps for Argentina and is the youngest to score for River Plate.

Early Life and Background

Born in Azul, a small city south of Buenos Aires, Franco Mastantuono grew up in a typical neighbourhood where he enjoyed casual football matches with friends. His father, Cristian, served as his first coach, nurturing his early talent. Mastantuono's journey in sports was not limited to football; he also excelled in tennis, travelling across Argentina to compete.

“Through tennis, I've met a lot of people. Travelling around the country and competing in a sport where the mental aspect is so important has helped me grow as a footballer,” Mastantuono reflected in an interview. His experiences in tennis not only shaped his athletic skills but also developed his mental fortitude, proving invaluable in high-pressure football environments.

Career Development at River Plate

At River Plate, Franco's talent blossomed. He made his professional debut at the age of 16 and quickly established himself as a key player. Over 64 appearances for the club, he scored 10 goals and provided seven assists. His remarkable ability to strike the ball, particularly evident in spectacular goals like his free-kick against Boca Juniors, captured the attention of scouts worldwide.

The club's president, Roberto Binzuna, praised him, stating, “Franco's passage through our club left an indelible mark. He has an incredible shot on him and stands out among other players.” This acclaim reflects the high expectations surrounding Mastantuono as he transitioned from River Plate to one of the world's biggest clubs.

Record Transfer to Real Madrid

In August 2023, Franco Mastantuono's transfer to Real Madrid was finalised for a reported fee of £54 million, making it a record sale for Argentine football. The financial details revealed that River Plate received €45 million (£38.5 million), but the total expenditure by Real Madrid, including taxes and other payments, reached €63.2 million (£54 million).

“Any player in the world dreams of playing for River Plate and Real Madrid,” Mastantuono expressed during his farewell. His successful transfer marked the culmination of years of hard work and dedication, as he made the leap to one of the most prestigious clubs in football history.

Impact at Real Madrid

Since joining Real Madrid, Mastantuono has quickly made a name for himself, starting in two out of the four La Liga matches and becoming the youngest player in the club's history to start a Champions League game at just 18 years and 33 days old. His ability to adapt to a squad filled with high-profile talent has impressed both fans and coaching staff alike.

Xabi Alonso, the Real Madrid coach, has been instrumental in Mastantuono's development. The manager’s approach to youth is well-known, and his confidence in the young player has been vital. “The way he spoke to me was incredible,” Mastantuono said, acknowledging Alonso's influence on his decision to join Real.

Playing Style and Skills

Mastantuono's playing style is characterised by his agility, quick dribbling, and exceptional ball control. Though he often starts on the right wing, he frequently roams into central positions, showcasing his versatility. Notably, his ability to strike from distance has made him a threat on the field, with his long-range efforts drawing comparisons to established stars.

“He ran very lightly with the ball,” recalls Marcelo Olariaga from Club Atletico River Plate Azuleno, where Mastantuono began his career. “He always had it tied to his feet.” This skill set, combined with his football intelligence, positions him as a rising star in European football.

Challenges Ahead

Despite his early success, Mastantuono faces challenges in the highly competitive environment of Real Madrid. With established players in the squad, including Rodrygo and Brahim Díaz, securing consistent playing time will require ongoing development. “His areas for improvement will probably be physical - to gain weight and strength - and his understanding of pressing without the ball,” suggests Tom Nash, a football analyst.

Real Madrid's methodology for developing young talent will play a crucial role in Mastantuono's progression. Experienced coaches and a commitment to nurturing skills can help mitigate the risks associated with young players transitioning to high-pressure environments.

What Lies Ahead for Franco Mastantuono?

Franco Mastantuono's story is still being written, but his journey thus far has been nothing short of remarkable. At the heart of his success is a blend of talent, hard work, and the support of those who have guided him along the way. As he continues to develop under the spotlight of Real Madrid, fans and pundits alike will be watching closely to see how he evolves as a player.

His record-breaking achievements at such a young age serve as inspiration for aspiring footballers around the globe, proving that with dedication and passion, dreams can indeed become a reality. As Mastantuono settles into his role at Real Madrid, the football world will be eager to witness his growth and the impact he will have on the pitch.

FAQs

Who is Franco Mastantuono?

Franco Mastantuono is an 18-year-old footballer from Argentina, currently playing for Real Madrid. He is recognised as the youngest player to start a Champions League match for the club.

How much did Real Madrid pay for Mastantuono?

Real Madrid reportedly paid £54 million for Franco Mastantuono, making it a record transfer for Argentine football, including various taxes and payments.

What position does Franco Mastantuono play?

Mastantuono primarily plays as an attacking midfielder or on the right wing, showcasing versatility in his playing style.

What are Mastantuono's notable achievements?

He is the youngest player to start a Champions League game for Real Madrid and has also represented Argentina at the senior level, earning three caps.

What challenges does Mastantuono face at Real Madrid?

He faces competition from established players for playing time and must continue to develop physically and tactically to succeed in a high-pressure environment.