Franco Mastantuono Makes First Real Madrid Start in La Liga

Franco Mastantuono started for Real Madrid for the first time since joining the club. This marked a new chapter for both the young Argentine and Real Madrid. The 18-year-old midfielder was chosen by head coach Xabi Alonso to be part of the starting eleven in Real Madrid’s away match at Real Oviedo.

WHAT HAPPENED?

Mastantuono, who transferred from River Plate earlier this summer for about $72.6 million, was in the starting lineup on Sunday. He played 63 minutes before being substituted and became Real Madrid’s youngest starter in the last 20 years. His signing marked the highest fee ever paid for an Argentine player.

His first-half performance was energetic, but he showed signs that he is still adapting to European football, earning a rating of 6.3 from Sofascore. Despite not showing impressive statistics, his inclusion sent a strong message about the club’s belief in his talent and potential for growth.

A TALENTED ARRIVAL AMID HIGH EXPECTATIONS

Before joining Madrid, Mastantuono had already made history in Argentina and earned his first senior call-up for the national team this June. In his debut La Liga appearance earlier in the week, he impressed fans by playing 22 minutes off the bench in a 1-0 win over Osasuna, a match that secured Madrid a winning start to the season.

His versatility allows him to play as a classic number 10 or out wide, giving Madrid more attacking options. Real Madrid began their season strongly, with that victory over Osasuna setting the tone. The club’s belief in Mastantuono is notable, especially as established players like Rodrygo watched from the sidelines in Madrid’s previous match.

WHAT’S NEXT FOR MASTANTUONO AND REAL MADRID?

Madrid’s next match is against Mallorca at home. The team is currently in the top of the table after their two opening wins, while Mallorca have just one point from their two opening matches. Real Madrid is in first place after two matchdays, level on points with Barcelona and Villarreal.

The coaching staff will have to decide how often to play Mastantuono, as fans and pundits watch his development closely. With a demanding schedule ahead, including matches in La Liga and the Champions League on the horizon, Mastantuono’s integration could be important for the team’s ambitions this season.