Franco Mastantuono could be on the verge of making a major breakthrough at Real Madrid, with reports from Diario AS indicating that he may step into the starting lineup against Real Oviedo. The 16-year-old Argentine talent is being lined up to take over the right-wing role, a position currently occupied by Brahim Díaz. This potential switch comes in response to Díaz’s disappointing performance in the La Liga opener against Osasuna, where he struggled to make an impact.
Manager Xabi Alonso has not hidden his admiration for Mastantuono since the youngster’s arrival. After granting him a 30-minute appearance off the bench, Alonso was quick to praise the teenager’s maturity and swift adaptation to life at the Bernabéu. “He’s looking good, he is fitting in well with his teammates, and it feels like he has been here longer than he actually has,” the coach remarked, highlighting the natural confidence Mastantuono brings to the pitch. His substitute cameo also raised eyebrows as he was preferred ahead of Rodrygo, a decision that underlines the faith Alonso already has in him.
Should Mastantuono start against Oviedo, it would be more than just a tactical adjustment—it could be a defining opportunity in his early career. With Madrid fans eager to see new heroes rise, the teenager has a chance to capture the imagination of the Bernabéu crowd and prove he can deliver at the highest level. For Brahim Díaz, however, this development signals a moment of reckoning. His inconsistency has long been a concern, and being displaced by a 16-year-old prospect would further increase the scrutiny surrounding his role in the squad.
Away from the attacking reshuffle, Xabi Alonso is also reshaping his defensive unit. Veteran Antonio Rüdiger, despite regaining full fitness, no longer appears to be a guaranteed starter. The coach is reportedly leaning toward pairing Éder Militão with Dean Huijsen, a duo that offers speed, mobility, and tactical versatility—qualities Alonso seems to prioritize in his system. Rüdiger’s leadership and experience remain valuable assets, but his place in the starting XI may now depend on rotations and specific match demands rather than being an automatic choice.
This blend of youthful energy and bold tactical decisions is quickly becoming a hallmark of Alonso’s early tenure. By giving opportunities to emerging stars like Mastantuono while reshaping the backline with fresh options, he is sending a clear message: reputations alone will not guarantee a place in his Madrid. Instead, performance, adaptability, and hunger for success will determine who wears the famous white shirt on matchday.