Franco Mastantuono Out of Sync: A Talent Still Searching for His Place
The minutes are back, but the spark is not. Mastantuono returns to the starting XI, yet his role on the wing continues to raise questions.
A Return to the Lineup That Fails to Silence Doubts
The name of Franco Mastantuono is once again appearing in Real Madrid lineups, but the feeling around his performances remains uneasy. The Argentine has regained prominence under Álvaro Arbeloa, just as he did earlier in the season with Xabi Alonso, yet consistency continues to elude him. In the most recent match against Rayo Vallecano, his substitution was met with audible discontent from the stands — a sign that patience may be wearing thin.
The situation has also sparked debate outside the club. Mario Kempes weighed in on Mastantuono’s current form and was blunt in his assessment. For the World Cup winner, the issue is not ability but attitude: more courage, more initiative, and a willingness to impose himself on games — the very qualities that once made him stand out.
A Skill Set That Doesn’t Flow on the Wing
The core issue appears to be positional rather than technical. Mastantuono does not naturally profile as a winger. He struggles to beat defenders one-on-one, rarely reaches the byline, and instinctively drifts inside in search of space. That tendency clashes with the demands of his current role on the right flank.
At River Plate, Mastantuono thrived as a free-roaming attacking midfielder, operating between the lines with license to dictate play. That role, however, is already occupied in Madrid by established names such as Jude Bellingham and Arda Güler, leaving limited room for experimentation.
The player himself has acknowledged the challenge. In past interviews, he admitted that his responsibilities at Madrid are more rigid, hugging the touchline and prioritizing team balance. The commitment is there — the comfort is not.
Arbeloa’s Bet (and Xabi’s Before Him)
Both Arbeloa and Xabi Alonso share a common view: Mastantuono offers reliability without the ball. His work rate, pressing intensity, and defensive awareness help compensate for attacking teammates like Vinícius Júnior and Kylian Mbappé, who are not always defined by defensive sacrifice. That tactical trust has kept him in the rotation.
His recent run reflects that belief. He started in the Copa del Rey against Albacete, dropped to the bench, returned to the XI versus Villarreal, and kept his place against Rayo. Still, the long-awaited breakout performance has yet to arrive.
Rising Competition and a Narrowing Window
The environment is becoming increasingly demanding. Brahim Díaz is back after the Africa Cup of Nations and gaining minutes. Rodrygo has recovered from injury and offers another option, while Gonzalo García has slipped down the pecking order. Tactical alternatives such as Eduardo Camavinga or Federico Valverde further complicate the picture.
Mastantuono still feels the backing from the bench, but time is no longer on his side. The talent is unquestionable. The challenge now is unlocking it from a position that, so far, seems to work against his greatest strengths.
