Real Madrid Fans React to Franco Mastantuono’s Club World Cup Debut
Franco Mastantuono, Real Madrid’s recent €45 million signing from River Plate, made headlines following his appearance in the FIFA Club World Cup. The 17-year-old featured in River Plate’s 3-1 victory over Urawa Red Diamonds, sparking a variety of reactions from fans online.
Madrid activated the youngster’s release clause to secure the talented attacking midfielder, who had already made history in Argentina as the youngest player to play a professional match. Though he will officially join Real Madrid in August upon turning 18, he is currently finishing his time at River Plate by competing in the Club World Cup.
In the match held in Seattle, Mastantuono played the full 90 minutes on the right side of a three-man front line. While he didn’t score, he was involved in the build-up to the opening goal and impressed viewers with flashes of skill, especially his passing and control.
Still, opinions were split:
- Some fans praised his potential but noted that he still needs development. One comment pointed out a lack of pace, effective dribbling, and shooting ability expected of a Real Madrid winger.
- Others saw shades of Lionel Messi in his style, due to his Argentine roots, left-footedness, and build.
- A few supporters even questioned current players’ positions, suggesting Mastantuono could challenge Rodrygo for a spot in the lineup.
- One fan remarked, “He’s raw but clearly mature for his age. He just needs time.”
River Plate’s goals came from Colidio, Driussi, and Meza, while Urawa Red Diamonds pulled one back through a Yusuke Matsuo penalty. Mastantuono’s performance was the major talking point post-match.
The young star is set to face Monterrey on June 22, followed by a clash against Inter Milan on June 26 — and all eyes will again be on the teenager, especially as he’ll be lining up opposite ex-Madrid captain Sergio Ramos in the next fixture.