The Date Etched on His Skin

Franco Mastantuono, one of Real Madrid’s brightest young prospects, carries not only Argentina’s talent in his feet but also its passion on his skin. In an interview with ESPN F3, the 17-year-old admitted he tattooed December 18, 2022—the date of the World Cup final in Qatar—because of what it meant to see Lionel Messi finally lift the trophy.

“I have the date tattooed for the national team, but mainly for the thorn Leo removed. It was the best thing that could have happened to us,” said Mastantuono, who still recalls with emotion the day Argentina defeated France and Messi fulfilled the dream of a lifetime.

Messi, His Eternal Idol

The Argentine midfielder makes no secret of his admiration for the Albiceleste captain. “Having Messi as a teammate is the best thing that ever happened to me. I’ve always admired him. Leo can place you on the pitch just by looking at you—he’s the best coach you can have on the field,” he said with humility and awe.

For Mastantuono, sharing a dressing room with his idol is far more than a footballing opportunity—it’s a lesson for life. “Playing with him helps you grow. I just try to watch him, understand what he does, and complement his movements. You have to think fast, but he makes it easy,” he added.

The Legacy of the Number 10

Even as he takes his first steps at Real Madrid, the teenager knows what it means to wear Argentina’s No. 10 jersey—a number worn by Maradona and Messi. “Wearing Leo’s 10 is the greatest thing. Every time I see a photo of myself with that shirt, I get emotional,” he admitted.

His tattoo, then, is more than just a date—it’s a symbol of a nation’s joy and of Messi’s legacy, the idol who shaped his childhood and his career. For Franco Mastantuono, December 18, 2022 wasn’t just the day Argentina reached the heavens—it was the day he chose to carry that moment forever on his skin.