Real Madrid’s young sensation Franco Mastantuono has revealed the players who inspire him most, placing Lionel Messi, Jude Bellingham, and Julián Álvarez at the very top of his list. The 18-year-old Argentine midfielder, who joined Real Madrid from River Plate this summer, has already impressed coaches and teammates with his maturity, creativity, and confidence on the ball despite his young age,.
Softfootball earlier reported that Mastantuono said he was delighted to play alongside Lionel Messi for Argentina,even calling it “a dream come true.” The young midfielder has long admired Messi and views the experience of sharing the same dressing room with the national icon as one of the biggest moments of his career so far.
The midfielder is currently with the Argentina national team during this international break as they prepare to face Venezuela and Puerto Rico in a friendly game.
According to top journalist Fabrizio Romano via his official X handle,the player revealed who the player he admired the most to the press, Fabrizio posted;
Mastantuono on podium of the players impressing him: ‘Leo Messi first, then second Bellingham… he’s different. And then, Julián Álvarez, one of the best in the world,’ told ESPN.
It is understandable that Mastantuono’s comments reflect his balanced appreciation for both Argentine idols and emerging global stars. His respect for Messi and Álvarez shows his pride in Argentina’s footballing heritage, while his admiration for Bellingham shows his awareness of the evolving modern game, something that somehow aligns with his own hybrid playing style at Madrid.
With Real Madrid continuing to invest in young talents, Mastantuono’s early rise could mark the beginning of another long-term project success similar to that of Vinícius Júnior and Rodrygo. The club believes his potential could make him one of the standout players of his generation, and his composure both on and off the pitch has already won over Madrid’s coaching staff and the Los Blancos supporters.
