Madrid’s Mastantuono Dilemma

When Real Madrid invested €45 million last summer to prise Franco Mastantuono away from River Plate, the move was framed as a statement of faith in the future. The 18-year-old Argentine prodigy was widely heralded as the long-term architect of Madrid’s midfield — a technically gifted playmaker capable of blending South American flair with European discipline. Yet only months into his tenure at the Santiago Bernabéu, the narrative has shifted dramatically.

Rather than orchestrating play on the pitch, Mastantuono has found himself an increasingly peripheral figure. Madrid’s recent turbulence has done little to ease his predicament. A 2–1 defeat to CA Osasuna last weekend intensified scrutiny on the squad and coaching decisions alike. Chasing an equaliser in the closing stages, manager Álvaro Arbeloa opted against introducing the young Argentine. It marked the third consecutive match in which Mastantuono failed to feature for even a single minute.

His marginalisation has been gradual but unmistakable. Under former coach Xabi Alonso, there were early indications that the midfielder might be eased into a meaningful role. However, minor injury setbacks and a subsequent tactical reshuffle have curtailed his opportunities. Arbeloa’s preference for a compact four-man midfield has left limited scope for a creative No. 10 profile, particularly as senior players regain fitness and reclaim their places.

Season Overview: 2025–26 (All Competitions)

That brief nine-minute cameo against Valencia on 8 February remains his most recent outing. For a player touted as a cornerstone of Madrid’s next generation, such figures are sobering.

Concern is mounting not only in Spain but also in Argentina. Mastantuono had featured in the starting XI against the Venezuela national football team during World Cup qualifying, underlining his growing stature at international level. With the forthcoming Finalissima against Spain and the 2026 World Cup — to be staged in United States, Canada and Mexico — Argentine officials are understandably uneasy. A lack of club minutes could blunt the sharpness of a player expected to contribute on the global stage.

Former Argentine midfielder Norberto Alonso has voiced sharp criticism, warning that prolonged inactivity risks stunting the youngster’s development. “They are finishing the boy,” Alonso reportedly remarked, arguing that talent requires consistent exposure to flourish.

January offered an alternative path. SSC Napoli, reigning Serie A champions, expressed interest in a loan arrangement. Mastantuono chose to remain in Madrid and compete for his place — a decision admirable in resolve, yet increasingly questioned in hindsight.

For Madrid, the dilemma is strategic as much as sporting. Can a €45 million investment afford to stagnate on the bench? Without a tactical adjustment or renewed managerial trust, Mastantuono’s immediate prospects appear uncertain. Whether this period proves a formative apprenticeship or a damaging detour will depend on the opportunities afforded to him in the months ahead.

Time, as ever in football, will deliver the verdict.