River Plate’s director of youth teams, Gabriel Orlando Rodriguez, has backed young Argentine talent Franco Mastantuono to become a very important player for Real Madrid in the near future.
Mastantuono left River Plate for the Santiago Bernabeu after Real Madrid triggered his €45 million release clause earlier in the summer. The 17-year-old Argentine committed his long-term future to Los Blancos, putting pen to paper on a six-year deal.
Rodriguez, who was one of the key figures in the discovery of Mastantuono’s potential as an 11-year-old kid, believes the youngster currently possesses all the tools to become a “special” player for Real Madrid.
“Franco is going to win over the Madrid fans. He’s going to conquer them,” River Plate’s youth team director said in a recent interview with AS.
“I have no doubt about that. His ball control, his composure, and his clarity are very striking and make him a special player. He will be a top-class player at Madrid.”
Real Madrid are stepping into a new era under the tutelage of Xabi Alonso and the 36-time La Liga champions are currently looking to rebuild the core of their squad around young players with the potential to shine for years to come.
This new position has already seen Los Blancos let go of a couple of veterans including 39-year-old Luka Modric and long-time vice captain Lucas Vasquez. The Spanish giants are also open to parting ways with the likes of David Alaba and Dani Ceballos.
For Real Madrid to dole out €45 million to sign Mastantuono, it goes without saying that he’s a player of incredible talent and immense potential. Whether he can fulfill this potential at the Santiago Bernabeu remains to be seen.
Olaoluwa is a dedicated sports writer and passionate football enthusiast with two years of experience. Known for his keen analysis and commitment to the game, his work reflects a deep love for football, blending strategic insight with the emotional moments that make it a global passion. He is focused on honing his skills and consistently aims to inspire and engage readers through every article he writes.
