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Samuel - June 9, 2025
Franco Mastantuono’s talent is rapidly gaining global recognition, with several elite European clubs tracking his progress, most notably Real Madrid, who appear close to securing his signature.
The 17-year-old Argentine forward had his breakout season in 2024 with River Plate, quickly becoming a first-team regular at an age when most players are still in youth squads. He has started the 2025 campaign in sensational form, scoring seven goals and registering four assists across all competitions.
With dazzling performances that reflect both composure and technical brilliance, it’s easy to see why Real Madrid are moving aggressively to bring him to the Santiago Bernabeu. Here’s why the Spanish giants believe Mastantuono could be their next generational signing.
Franco Mastantuono began his football journey at River Plate’s academy, making his first appearance for the youth side in 2019. After impressing in the youth setup, he earned a call-up to first-team training and made his senior debut on January 28, 2024, in a 1-1 draw against Argentinos Juniors.
Following a promising debut, he gradually earned more minutes and scored his first senior goal in a 3-0 win over CA Excursionistas on February 8, 2024, becoming the youngest goal scorer in the club’s history at just 16.
By the end of the 2024 season, Mastantuono had become a regular starter, featuring in 24 league matches, scoring once, and contributing three assists. His rise has caught the attention of agents and clubs across Europe, who see his potential as nothing short of extraordinary.
Franco Mastantuono is an immensely versatile attacking player, capable of operating both as a right winger and as a central attacking midfielder. His game is defined by exceptional dribbling, electric pace, sharp vision, and a powerful shot from distance.
Physically strong for his age, he consistently rides challenges from defenders and creates space in tight areas. His ability to link up play and break defensive lines with incisive passes reflects a footballing IQ beyond his years. So far in 2025, he has already provided four league assists, a testament to his creativity.
Perhaps his most eye-catching trait is his shooting technique, he combines precision with power, as demonstrated by his seven goals this season. Whether cutting inside from the wing or launching from outside the box, Mastantuono remains a constant threat.
With Xabi Alonso taking charge at Real Madrid and leading a new era for the club, signings like Trent Alexander-Arnold, Dean Huijsen and potentially Franco Mastantuono, point to a well-defined project focused on technical versatility and youth.
Alonso’s evolving tactical system, which often features a 3-4-3 setup emphasizes fluid attacking roles and quick transitions. Mastantuono’s skill set aligns perfectly with this vision. His ability to drift wide, attack centrally, or drop deep to build play provides Alonso with multiple tactical options.
He is expected to compete with Arda Guler in the attacking midfield role while also serving as a dynamic alternative to Rodrygo on the right flank. This dual role may allow him to earn valuable minutes as both a starter and an impact substitute.
Alonso’s preference for nurturing young talent further strengthens Mastantuono’s prospects. Under his guidance, the Argentine could mature rapidly into a system that encourages intelligent movement and technical excellence.
Real Madrid is reportedly prepared to trigger Mastantuono’s €45 million release clause, a bold move reflecting their long-term vision. The fee will be paid in structured installments, showcasing both the club’s belief in his potential and their financial prudence.
Despite competition from other European giants, Madrid have taken the lead thanks to a clear developmental plan, which includes first-team integration and mentorship. He is expected to join Los Blancos after his 18th birthday in August.
River Plate, however, hopes to retain him through the Club World Cup later this month. Should that happen, Mastantuono would then join Madrid’s pre-season tour, where he can begin adapting to Spanish football and life in La Liga.
Real Madrid’s youth recruitment model is already paying dividends, with the likes of Vinícius Junior, Rodrygo, and Eduardo Camavinga flourishing into world-class players. Mastantuono could be the next name to continue that tradition.
His composure, intelligence, and versatility make him a valuable asset in Alonso’s setup, and the club believes he can grow into a top-tier player. His dual ability to play between the lines or exploit space on the flank gives Madrid a tactical edge as he develops.
With Alonso’s emphasis on player development and adaptability, Mastantuono is in an ideal environment to evolve both technically and mentally. If given the right opportunities, he could become a foundational piece in Madrid’s long-term midfield and attacking plans.
Franco Mastantuono’s imminent move to Real Madrid marks a turning point in his rising career. After proving himself as a teenage sensation in Argentina, he now steps into the pressure-filled but opportunity-rich world of elite European football.
Real Madrid, under the guidance of Xabi Alonso, have the infrastructure and patience to turn him into a global star. With the right blend of mentorship, tactical education, and confidence, Mastantuono may well follow in the footsteps of other South American greats who became legends in white.
If his current trajectory holds, Madrid’s €45 million investment could soon look like a bargain, and Mastantuono might be remembered as one of the club’s most important signings of the decade.
