Real Madrid: €60 Million Gem Loses Ground, Loan Move on the Horizon

Unveiled at Real Madrid on his 18th birthday, breaking Maradona's record as the youngest ever to wear Argentina's number 10 jersey, and becoming Real's youngest Champions League starter – all signs pointed to the 2025/26 season being a historic one for Franco Mastantuono. However, since suffering a groin injury in November, the player's situation has deteriorated, and his future is now a subject of intense debate.

Xabi Alonso's departure clearly impacted the 18-year-old forward's playing time. He was a key figure under the former coach, who was later replaced by Álvaro Arbeloa. Furthermore, a serious insult directed at a referee, which earned him a two-match suspension ("What a disgrace, what a f***ing disgrace," he reportedly told the official), also marred a second half of the season with little to celebrate.

Consequently, Spanish daily AS reports that Real Madrid is now considering loaning out Franco Mastantuono next season to ensure the young Argentine can accumulate valuable minutes.

Signed last summer from River Plate for over 60 million euros (including fixed fees and bonuses), Mastantuono generated significant excitement among the Merengues faithful. His initial performances under Xabi Alonso were promising, showcasing great work rate and flashes of brilliance playing on the right flank. However, his involvement has steadily declined, with this season seeing him play just over 1200 minutes, scoring three goals and providing one assist in 31 appearances.

The 18-year-old's reduced role is evident: he wasn't a starter in the Champions League round of 16 or quarter-finals, and his last LaLiga start dates back to February 1st. Given this scenario, a loan spell appears to be the most probable solution for him to develop the potential that prompted Real Madrid to make such a significant investment.

Despite the lack of opportunities, confidence in the Argentine's talent remains unwavering within the club, according to the same source. His signing was fast-tracked to fend off competition from PSG. However, Real Madrid's squad is preparing for the upcoming season with a clear objective of winning titles after two consecutive trophy-less seasons, leaving no room for experimentation. This further reinforces the need for Mastantuono to play regularly at another club.

In this regard, River Plate, his formative club, emerges as a potential destination, with coach Chacho Coudet already leaving the door open for a return.

"We're waiting for him here with open arms. It's a different style of football, but I don't believe he hasn't adapted because when he played, he played well. I don't want to interfere too much, but these are normal processes. And I repeat, for whatever he needs, he has a place here," stated the Millonarios coach.