Xabi Alonso’s Hidden Gem at Real Madrid: Franco Mastantuono and His Key Role

The emphatic win by Real Madrid over Kairat Almaty on Matchday 2 of the UEFA Champions League 2025-2026 left plenty of positives—but one thing was clear: Mastantuono is not just another promising youngster. He’s already making a difference.

The Argentine midfielder started the match and played 69 minutes before being replaced by Rodrygo. His performance was decisive, as he drew the foul inside the box that led to Kylian Mbappé’s penalty goal, which opened the scoring for the Spanish giants.

The Spanish press praised his personality and confidence despite his young age. According to AS, the teenager “showed that unmistakable competitive gene that makes him invaluable for Xabi Alonso. That’s how he forced the penalty that broke the deadlock.”

Aside from a few moments of overplaying the ball, his overall display earned praise from teammates and coaches alike, who see him as a player with enormous potential.

Mastantuono’s rapid rise has surprised even people inside the dressing room. Before the match in Kazakhstan, there was speculation that the Argentine might start on the bench—an idea that reportedly didn’t sit well with some of the team’s senior players. In the end, Xabi Alonso trusted him from the opening whistle, and the youngster delivered with a strong performance.

Developed in River Plate’s youth academy, Mastantuono has quickly adapted to the demands of European football and life at Real Madrid. His “competitive gene” and ability to impact high-stakes matches are cementing his status as one of the most valuable assets in the squad.

The trust placed in Mastantuono comes at a crucial moment for Real Madrid. The recent defeat in the derby against Atlético de Madrid, which ended a seven-game winning streak, has raised questions about the team’s ability to perform in big matches.

Under Xabi Alonso, Real Madrid also suffered a heavy 4-0 defeat to PSG in the Club World Cup semifinals earlier this year. That’s why finding players who can rise to the occasion is essential for strengthening the project—and Mastantuono appears ready to take on that challenge.

With character, talent, and just 17 years of age, Franco Mastantuono is emerging as one of the most important players for Real Madrid, both in the present and for the future.

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