Franco Mastantuono Sparks Heated Debate in Argentina: “He Left River Too Soon”
The sensational transfer of 18-year-old Franco Mastantuono from River Plate to Real Madrid has ignited a storm of controversy in Argentina. The young prodigy, barely out of his teens, finds himself at the center of intense scrutiny as fans and pundits question whether he rushed his leap to one of the world’s most demanding football stages.
Journalist Hernán Pereyra, speaking on ESPN, questioned the timing and maturity behind Mastantuono’s move. According to Pereyra, the youngster didn’t leave a lasting mark at River Plate. “He leaves behind a single memorable free-kick goal against Boca Juniors and a $50 million transfer fee. Nothing else,” he said with a hint of sarcasm, highlighting the minimal legacy Mastantuono leaves in his homeland.
Pereyra expressed concern about the growing trend of young Argentine talents prioritizing European opportunities over fully developing their careers at home. He criticized Mastantuono for skipping the Copa Libertadores, South America’s premier club competition, a stage that many argue is crucial for gaining experience and resilience before tackling European football.
Drawing comparisons with compatriots like Julián Álvarez and Enzo Fernández, Pereyra emphasized that these players first consolidated their reputations locally before moving abroad. “Today’s youngsters seem disconnected from their training clubs. Perhaps he played Real Madrid on his console and fell in love with it,” he quipped, underscoring the perceived immaturity of such early moves.
Despite these criticisms, Pereyra acknowledged Mastantuono’s undeniable talent. Yet he stressed that Real Madrid may represent an overwhelmingly ambitious challenge at this early stage of the player’s career. “I wish him success, but he simply lacks the experience. He wasn’t ready for this leap,” he concluded.
Meanwhile, Mastantuono remains determined to prove himself in Madrid. His first opportunity to showcase his skills in La Liga could come as early as Tuesday against Osasuna at the iconic Santiago Bernabéu Stadium.
Whether this rapid rise will transform Mastantuono into a global star or become a risky gamble is yet to be seen, leaving Argentine fans anxiously divided over the fate of their young prodigy.
