Franco Mastantuono returned to Real Madrid training after the FIFA break. The 18-year-old started for Argentina against Venezuela and came off the bench against Ecuador, where he wore Lionel Messi’s No. 10 shirt.
AFA’s aim is to include Mastantuono in the squad for the U20 World Cup in Chile, scheduled from September 27 to October 19.
Real Madrid coach Xabi Alonso stated in a press conference: “If it depends on us, he stays with us.” His words suggest it will be difficult for the midfielder to join Diego Placente’s final list. The situation mirrors 2023, when Real Madrid did not release Nico Paz for the same tournament.
Mastantuono is being unfairly compared to Yamal, but there are important differences. Yamal is likely the better player, yet his rise followed a more advantageous path because he came through Barcelona’s system La Masia, the cantera, the youth teams, Barcelona B, and eventually the first team at a time when the club couldn’t afford expensive signings. His development was entirely within Europe, without the stress of changing countries or continents. For Yamal, the process was organic. Mastantuono, on the other hand, needs time and space without pressure. If allowed to grow at his own pace, we may eventually see him blossom. So far, I am not sure I am that impressed if I am honest…That said, I think he could have really benefited from U20 participation under Placente
An U20 team with Mastantuono, Subiabre, Echeverri, Lencina, Montoro, Carrizo, Ruberto, Sarco, Dadin would kick asses, with the probable lineup we will be sadly mediocre again.
+in Leverkusen Hjulmand is going to use 3-4-3 with two midfielders only, one will be Palacios/Aleix Garcia the creative one, the other Andrich/Equi, so Equi has to beat Leverkusen captain, the best german player in the team. Very difficult. A real test to be in the WC squad, imo wont happen.