Real Madrid present Franco Mastantuono on his 18th birthday after a record-breaking €63.2m move from River Plate. The Argentine forward reveals PSG’s interest, praises Messi, and explains why Xabi Alonso’s call convinced him to join Los Blancos.
Real Madrid officially presented Franco Mastantuono on Thursday, marking the beginning of what could be one of the most intriguing careers at the Santiago Bernabéu in recent years.
The unveiling was symbolic in more ways than one it came on the day the young Argentine forward turned 18, the age that marks the start of his eligibility for a long-term contract under FIFA regulations. Mastantuono, who joins from River Plate, has committed to Los Blancos until 2031, signalling the club’s intent to make him a central figure in their future plans.
The presentation took place at the club’s modernised facilities, with president Florentino Pérez at his side, smiling for the cameras as the teenager held up his new shirt. The event attracted considerable media attention, both in Spain and in Argentina, not only because of Mastantuono’s potential but also because of the transfer fee involved a record-breaking sum for Argentine football.
Addressing the press, Mastantuono wasted no time in acknowledging that his path to Madrid was not straightforward. “There were several clubs interested in me, and I have complete respect for them,” he said. “I spoke with Luis Enrique, and he was very clear with me. I congratulate him on last night’s title,” he added, making reference to Paris Saint-Germain’s UEFA Super Cup triumph over Tottenham in a tense penalty shootout. His words confirmed what had been speculated for weeks that PSG had been among the frontrunners for his signature, and that Mastantuono had been personally courted by their coach.
Yet, it was Real Madrid’s approach, and in particular the personal involvement of head coach Xabi Alonso, that proved decisive. “I had already spoken with Xabi. He called me, and it was very important for me that he showed that confidence. It was a private conversation, but the fact that he called me gave me a lot of confidence it meant a lot,” Mastantuono explained. That gesture, he implied, was a turning point, reinforcing his belief that Madrid was the right place for his development.
Inevitably, given his nationality, the conversation turned to Lionel Messi. “He meant a lot to Barcelona and to Argentinians,” Mastantuono reflected. “I think Real Madrid is the biggest club in the world that’s part of history. I’m here to make my own path, and I want the fans to be proud of what I do on the pitch. Best in the world? I’m Argentine, and for me, Messi is the best,” he said with a smile, striking a balance between national pride and his new allegiance.
The scale of Mastantuono’s move underlines Real Madrid’s long-term vision. On June 13, the club activated his €45 million release clause from River Plate, with an additional €18.2 million in taxes bringing the total deal to an eye-watering €63.2 million. That figure makes him the most expensive export in Argentine football history, surpassing even the transfers of icons like Javier Saviola, Gonzalo Higuaín, and Enzo Fernández.
In footballing terms, Mastantuono arrives with a reputation as one of South America’s brightest prospects. At River Plate, he became the youngest debutant in the club’s history and quickly showcased a maturity in decision-making and technical skill that belied his age. Comfortable playing across the front line but particularly effective cutting in from the right on his favoured left foot, he combines pace, dribbling ability, and a sharp eye for goal. Scouts have often compared his early style to a blend of Ángel Di María’s agility and Paulo Dybala’s creativity.
For Real Madrid, the signing also reflects a clear recruitment strategy. In recent years, the club has aggressively pursued the most promising young talents from around the world, bringing in the likes of Vinícius Júnior, Rodrygo, and Endrick from Brazil, as well as Arda Güler from Turkey. Mastantuono fits perfectly into this model a player who can be integrated gradually, learning from established stars while being groomed for a central role in the coming seasons.
His arrival also adds depth and competition to Madrid’s attacking options. While he may not be expected to start immediately, Carlo Ancelotti or more likely Xabi Alonso if current reports of a future managerial succession prove true will have the flexibility to use him in Copa del Rey matches, early Champions League group games, and as an impact substitute in La Liga.
For Mastantuono himself, the challenge will be adapting quickly to life in Spain not just on the pitch but off it. Moving from Buenos Aires to Madrid at such a young age involves cultural, linguistic, and tactical adjustments. However, given his composure in the spotlight and the maturity he has shown so far, Real Madrid are confident he will thrive.
In the coming weeks, all eyes will be on whether Mastantuono is given his debut in one of Madrid’s early fixtures. Regardless of when it comes, the club’s faith in him is clear: they have invested heavily, committed long-term, and placed him in an environment designed to turn promise into stardom. For Madrid fans, the hope is that his name will, in time, be mentioned alongside the club’s greats not just as the most expensive Argentine signing ever, but as one of the most impactful.
