Franco Mastantuono’s arrival at Real Madrid in the summer of 2025 sent ripples through European football, and the young Argentine continues to command headlines as Los Blancos navigate a pivotal stretch of their season. With the club entering a critical week that includes a tricky away fixture at Getafe, the looming El Clasico, and a Champions League showdown with Juventus, Mastantuono’s role, both on and off the pitch, has come under intense scrutiny.
Mastantuono’s decision to join Real Madrid was itself a statement. Turning down lucrative offers from Paris Saint-Germain and other European giants, he chose the Spanish capital for its sporting challenge rather than financial incentives. Club president Florentino Pérez publicly lauded the teenager’s ambition, describing him as emblematic of the club’s ethos: “He wasn’t looking for a contract, but for a top-level sporting challenge.” That attitude has quickly endeared Mastantuono to Madridistas and staff alike.
Under the guidance of coach Xabi Alonso, Mastantuono has become an undisputed starter on the right flank of Real Madrid’s attack. His consistent performances and maturity beyond his years have secured him a place in the starting eleven, a rare feat for a player of his age at a club where expectations never wane. Sporting directors have made it clear that Mastantuono is seen as a long-term project, with the club investing in his development and future growth.
His influence isn’t limited to club football. Mastantuono has also made headlines with the Argentine national team, where, in the latest squad selection in October 2025, he was handed the legendary number 10 jersey. This honor, reserved for only the most special players, signaled his growing stature in the international game. Teammates have praised his ability to read the game and remain composed in high-pressure moments. As his reputation grows, so does speculation about his future, with Liverpool and Argentina star Alexis Mac Allister reportedly expressing a desire to play alongside Mastantuono at Real Madrid.
As Real Madrid prepared for their October 19, 2025, La Liga clash against Getafe at the Coliseum Alfonso Perez, Mastantuono’s integration into the squad was a focal point. Alonso, facing a slew of injuries in defense, was forced to shuffle his lineup. With Dani Carvajal and Trent Alexander-Arnold sidelined, Federico Valverde was tasked with covering right-back duties, a role he has handled capably in the past. Eder Militao and Raul Asencio were expected to anchor central defense, compensating for the absence of Dean Huijsen and Antonio Rudiger. Alvaro Carreras completed the back line on the left.
Midfield saw the welcome return of Jude Bellingham, who had recently recovered from shoulder surgery. Bellingham, eager to reassert himself in the starting lineup, joined Aurelien Tchouameni and either Eduardo Camavinga or Arda Guler, both of whom have impressed in recent appearances. Up front, the attacking trident of Kylian Mbappe, Vinicius Jr., and Mastantuono promised both speed and unpredictability, with Mastantuono returning early from international duty to be fit for the occasion.
The match itself proved to be a tense affair. Getafe, known for their physicality and relentless pressing, made life difficult for the visitors. Real Madrid’s recent record at the Coliseum Alfonso Perez had been mixed—three wins, a draw, and a defeat in their last five visits, with only four goals scored and one conceded. This time, Getafe’s defensive discipline once again frustrated Los Blancos, who struggled to break the deadlock as the first half wore on.
A moment of drama unfolded late in the first half. Real Madrid won a promising free kick near the edge of the box, and Mastantuono, brimming with confidence, positioned himself to take it. However, senior teammates Éder Militão and Federico Valverde intervened, instructing the 18-year-old to step aside in favor of veteran David Alaba. Cameras caught Mastantuono visibly annoyed as he walked away, muttering under his breath. Alaba’s attempt was well struck, forcing a good save from the Getafe goalkeeper, but the episode highlighted the competitive tensions and hierarchy within the squad. According to onlookers, "Mastantuono showed visible frustration after being denied a chance to take a free kick in the game against Getafe."
Despite these frustrations, Mastantuono’s presence on the pitch was felt throughout the match. His movement and energy challenged Getafe’s defenders, even as Real Madrid struggled to find a breakthrough. The team remained goalless as Getafe’s organization and intensity pinned them back, underscoring the importance of every point with the league lead still up for grabs and El Clasico on the horizon.
Off the pitch, Mastantuono’s impact continued to be recognized. In October 2025, he was named to the prestigious 25-player shortlist for the Golden Boy Award, presented by Italian outlet Tuttosport. The award, often referred to as the Ballon d’Or for young talent, honors the best European-based player under 21. Mastantuono’s inclusion alongside stars like PSG’s Désiré Doué reflected his growing reputation as one of Europe’s brightest prospects. Notably, Barcelona’s Lamine Yamal was excluded from the shortlist, having already won the award in 2024—a talking point that sparked debate among fans and pundits alike.
The Golden Boy nomination capped a remarkable few months for Mastantuono, who has already been compared to some of the greatest midfield talents in the game. His rapid rise at both club and international level, coupled with his ambition and work ethic, has made him a symbol of Real Madrid’s new generation. As the season intensifies, the club’s faith in their young Argentine looks increasingly well-placed.
Looking ahead, Mastantuono’s journey will only get more demanding. With crucial matches against Barcelona and Juventus looming, and the pressure of maintaining Real Madrid’s position at the top of La Liga, every performance will be scrutinized. Yet, if recent weeks are any indication, Mastantuono relishes the challenge. His response to adversity—whether being denied a free kick or facing tough opposition—demonstrates a resilience and hunger that bodes well for both his future and that of the club.
As Real Madrid’s pivotal week unfolds, all eyes remain on Franco Mastantuono. Whether dazzling in the number 10 shirt for Argentina or fighting for every inch at the Bernabéu, the young star continues to prove why he was worth the hype—and why his story is only just beginning.
