Mastantuono: 2026, the Year of Redemption for Real Madrid

Franco Mastantuono‘s journey at Real Madrid has hit a rough patch in 2025, but the club remains optimistic about his future. Despite a challenging year, there is a strong belief within the club that 2026 could be pivotal for the young Argentine midfielder to rediscover his potential. When he arrived in Madrid, Mastantuono was seen as a bold investment, with Real Madrid paying a staggering €63.2 million—the highest transfer fee in River Plate’s history—to secure his services and fend off interest from PSG. This faith in his abilities has not wavered, even amidst current struggles.

Initially, Mastantuono was an indispensable starter, but as the season progressed, he found himself relegated to the bench. The club’s priority now is to rejuvenate his confidence and performance levels. Reports from AS indicate that he is currently teetering between immense potential and a concerning loss of momentum. The responsibility now lies with the player to regain the intensity and impact that marked his early days at the club. His situation has been further complicated by Rodrygo‘s emergence on the right flank, effectively usurping Mastantuono’s place in key matches against teams like Manchester City and Sevilla.

Struggles on the Pitch

Mastantuono’s statistics tell a stark story of underperformance. His only goal for Real Madrid came on September 23, and since then, he has struggled to find his rhythm or contribute effectively to the team’s dynamics. This is particularly striking when compared to his prolific record at River Plate, where he became the youngest goalscorer in the club’s history at just 16 years old. Over 64 appearances in Argentina, he netted ten goals, including five in his last eight matches across domestic league and Libertadores play.

Internal Pressures Mounting

Coach Xabi Alonso has gradually tempered expectations surrounding Mastantuono. Some of his on-field behavior—such as a confrontation with David Alaba during a free-kick situation against Getafe—has not endeared him to management. Moreover, visible frustration following substitutions has raised eyebrows within the squad. The primary concern remains his declining energy levels and fighting spirit, qualities that initially attracted him to Madrid’s coaching staff.

Adding to this pressure is the anticipated return of Nico Paz next June—a player with a similar profile who has already been integrated into Argentina’s national setup by Scaloni. The stakes are high for Mastantuono; reviving his form is no longer merely an option but an urgent necessity for both player and club alike. As we look ahead, 2026 looms as a critical year for this young talent—can he rise to the occasion?