A thrilling signing… that has to wait

Franco Mastantuono arrived at Real Madrid as one of the club’s biggest long-term bets. At just 17, Los Blancos paid $51.5 million to River Plate, plus another $20 million in taxes and fees, to beat out European giants for one of South America’s brightest prospects. But his debut will have to wait.

By Spanish law, underage players cannot officially train with the first team, which prevents Mastantuono from joining Xabi Alonso’s squad. Until August 14—his 18th birthday—the Argentine must train separately, away from stars like Bellingham, Vinicius, Rodrygo, and Valverde.

Another striker for Madrid’s crowded frontline

Beyond the delayed integration, Mastantuono faces fierce competition. Real Madrid’s attacking positions are stacked with young talent: Endrick and Gonzalo García are already battling for the vacant No. 9 shirt, while Arda Güler and Brahim Díaz also fight for similar roles.

Able to play as a No. 10 or a right winger, Mastantuono will need to prove why he was already a starter at River Plate, racking up 64 appearances, 10 goals, and 7 assists—and even earning a call-up to Argentina’s national team. The potential is there, but the challenge is massive.

A gem on pause

For now, Madrid is closely monitoring his progress as he trains alone. It’s not the dream debut he envisioned, but the club is confident the Argentine will wait patiently and rise when the moment comes. The competition will be brutal—but Mastantuono has one thing others don’t: the backing of a multi-million dollar investment.