Real Madrid lost 2-1 to Osasuna, and despite needing a goal in the closing stages, they did not turn to Franco Mastantuono. The 18-year-old, who signed last summer for a fee of €45m, has not played a single minutes in Los Blancos’ last three matches, which has confused supporters and pundits alike.
Mastantuono recently spoke highly of Real Madrid head coach Alvaro Arbeloa, but in the last couple of weeks, he has not been trusted. In particular, those in Argentina are concerned about the situation, with former footballer Norberto Alonso taking aim at the Bernabeu club during a recent interview (via Marca).
“They are killing him. Do you know why? I think that boy is going to end up in a team at the bottom. Then, maybe he will return to Real Madrid, but first he has to be given the chance to show that he can play for Real Madrid.”
Argentine national team concerned about Mastantuono
As per the report, officials of the Argentine national team have been monitoring Mastantuono’s situation in recent weeks, and his lack of action is causing problems. They are not happy about him barely playing, as it will not leave him in good stead ahead of La Finalissima in March, as well as this summer’s World Cup in North America.
Arbeloa’s decision to switch to a midfield four has been to the detriment of Mastantuono, and it is persists, he could continue to be frozen out – especially when Rodrygo Goes returns from injury in the next couple of weeks.
In hindsight, a loan exit in January could have been the ideal solution for the teenager, who did receive an approach from reigning Serie A champions Napoli. He turned that down, but he may now been regretting that, given his current lack of prominence.
Mastantuono has been given a lot more chances than any player of his age since he arrived… but has NOT performed satisfactorily at all. Neither under Xabi nor under Arbeloa. He is basically a talented but overhyped young player that is too young to understand football in an environment where he is not shielded. The Real Madrid main team is not the environment that will give an under developed player a spot at the expense of trophies.
Yes, he will have to go out on loan because Guller at 18 was streets ahead…and was not getting a look in the main 11.
Mastantuono takes on players and loses the ball far too often… but at least chases after the ball.
Hyped as a Messi type player but has showed zero similiarity so far.
Yes. He is not very performant on the right wing compared to Lamine and other peers.
He needs time to be able to use his left leg adequately.
Madrid needs a good left winger