Footballer Franco Mastantuono expresses exhilaration upon being presented to Real Madrid, stating that his career aspiration as an athlete and an individual has been realized.
Young Talent Franco Mastantuono Joins Real Madrid
Franco Mastantuono, a promising 18-year-old midfielder, has officially joined Real Madrid from River Plate. The transfer was finalised on his birthday, August 14, 2025, after an agreement was reached in June.
Mastantuono will wear the number 30 shirt at Real Madrid, the same number he wore at River Plate. His contract with the Spanish giants extends until 2031.
The Argentinean talent chose Real Madrid over Paris Saint-Germain, influenced significantly by a personal phone call from Real Madrid coach Xabi Alonso. Alonso expressed confidence and showed strong interest in Mastantuono, which proved decisive in his decision to join Los Blancos.
Mastantuono admires Real Madrid legend Alfredo Di Stefano and aspires to follow his path. Having played for River Plate before moving to Real Madrid, Mastantuono's career trajectory mirrors Di Stefano’s.
At Madrid, Mastantuono is seen as a promising starter by Alonso and is expected to compete for game time in midfield or as a playmaker ("enganche"). Initial opportunities are enhanced by injured players in the senior squad. Although officially a Castilla player due to registration constraints, Mastantuono is integrated with the first-team environment and has already made a substitute appearance in La Liga shortly after joining.
Mastantuono lived the wait for his debut with a little bit of anxiety, but he is eager to start training from this Friday. The difficult thing for Mastantuono in Europe is the pace of the game, but he finds the pace of football in the Spanish league tactically appealing.
Florentino Pérez, Real Madrid's president, thanked Mastantuono for choosing Real Madrid and turning down offers from other clubs. Mastantuono expressed gratitude towards the club and his family during his presentation. He promised to be a fan on the field for Real Madrid's fans.
Mastantuono's grandparents told him about the significance of Alfredo Di Stefano for football and Real Madrid. He admires Jude Bellingham and spoke with him during his medical examination.
Luis Enrique contacted Mastantuono to sign for PSG, but Mastantuono chose Real Madrid instead. Leo Messi is the best player in the world for Mastantuono.
Mastantuono will play for Real Madrid's reserve team, Real Madrid Castilla. Despite this, he is integrated with the first-team environment and is expected to compete for a spot in the senior squad.
Despite the challenges, Mastantuono is ready to take on Europe and continue his football journey at Real Madrid.
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