Argentinian Prodigy Faces Three Crucial Matches at Real Madrid

Young talent Franco Mastantuono is confronting the biggest challenge of his career at Real Madrid, with only three games left to prove his worth after being sidelined from the starting lineup.

Franco Mastantuono’s future at Real Madrid has become a hot topic recently. After a brilliant start with the Royal Club, the 18-year-old Argentine player was unexpectedly benched, raising questions about his true role in coach Xabi Alonso’s long-term plans.

Since being substituted off in the 55th minute against Getafe on October 19, Mastantuono has not started any matches. He only played the last 6 minutes in the Champions League match against Juventus and was completely absent from the El Clásico victory over Barcelona. Once a promising young face expected to succeed the Galáctico generation, the €45 million player from River Plate is now struggling to reclaim his place at the Bernabéu stadium.

In the early games under Xabi Alonso, Mastantuono impressed Real Madrid fans with his confident ball control, creative thinking, and abundant energy. However, two uninspired performances against Getafe and Villarreal led to criticism for losing his confidence and breakthrough ability. Coach Alonso had to opt for a safer choice as the team rotated players between La Liga and the Champions League competitions.

The next three matches against Valencia, Liverpool, and Rayo Vallecano before the November international break will be a critical turning point for Franco Mastantuono. These games could even influence his entire career at Real Madrid.

Nevertheless, the Spanish coach insists he has not turned his back on the player. Alonso stated: “Mastantuono has excellent adaptability and a strong personality. The rotation is meant to help him develop better, not as a punishment.” In reality, Real Madrid’s midfield is overcrowded with stars like Valverde, Bellingham, and Camavinga. Moreover, Carvajal and Alexander-Arnold are returning soon, further limiting the young player’s opportunities on the field.

If he fails to make an impact, he risks becoming the next casualty of the fierce competition at Bernabéu. Does the young Argentine talent have the resilience to overcome the challenge and prove himself at Real Madrid?