Xabi Alonso Hails Franco Mastantuono as Real Madrid’s Present and Future

Real Madrid head coach Xabi Alonso has called new signing Franco Mastantuono “our present and future” and praised the young Argentine’s energy and immediate impact after just two games with the club.

WHAT HAPPENED?

Franco Mastantuono, only 17 years old, joined Real Madrid from River Plate this summer in a high-profile €63 million switch. Real Madrid reached an agreement for a world-record $72.6 million transfer for Franco Mastantuono, marking the highest fee ever paid for an Argentine player. After making his debut against Osasuna, he again featured in Sunday’s La Liga outing at Real Oviedo. In both matches, he impressed coaches, fans, and journalists with his dynamic style. Following the final whistle in Oviedo, Mastantuono was given a standing ovation by the travelling supporters, with Alonso then publicly declaring: “Franco Mastantuono is our present and future. I like his energy, he’s fantastic.”

MASTANTUONO’S METEORIC RISE AND MADRID’S NEW LOOK

Mastantuono’s rapid promotion to Real Madrid’s first team has excited the fanbase. Despite being registered with Castilla for administrative reasons, the teenager has already played key minutes in La Liga. Brahim Díaz made way for him in the 68th minute on his opening night, before Mastantuono shone again in his second appearance at Oviedo. Madrid secured a 1-0 win over Osasuna in their first game of the 2025/26 La Liga season, and the occasion at Oviedo is now being seen as a chance to build on that progress. Last season, Los Blancos finished as runners-up. This time around, with young talent in the ranks, they want to reclaim top spot in the Liga table.

WHAT’S NEXT FOR MASTANTUONO AND REAL MADRID?

Madrid’s next league assignment arrives against a Mallorca side currently in the bottom half with one draw and one loss so far this season, with Real level on points with Villarreal and Barcelona. Mastantuono’s performances have put pressure on Alonso to start him regularly and, with results going well, he could soon establish himself in the first XI. As Madrid target trophies this season, both the club and fans will be the first to watch the Argentine sensation’s growth and influence in the team.