Softfootball reports that Real Madrid boss Xabi Alonso has thrown his full support behind teenage wonderkid and Argentine star Franco Mastantuono, urging patience and faith as the 18-year-old continues to adapt to life in Spain.
Speaking ahead of Madrid’s Champions League clash with Juventus, Alonso said the youngster needs time, trust, and guidance to reach his full potential. He was quoted by Fabrizio Romano in a post made via his official X handle stressing the need to invest in him and help him. The Madrid coach described Mastantuono as a huge talent and expressed total belief in his development.
He Posted:
Xabi Alonso: Mastantuono has just recently arrived… and he’s just 18 years old. We need to invest in him and help him. We’re delighted to have him with us. I trust Franco.
Mastantuono arrived at Spain from River Plate in August 2025, signing on his 18th birthday in what was seen as a bold move for the Argentine prodigy. Since then, he’s already made his mark—becoming the youngest player to start for Real Madrid in the Champions League, at 18 years and 33 days, during their controversial 2–1 win over Marseille. He also bagged his first LaLiga goal in a convincing 4–1 victory over Levante.
While his rise has been rapid, the teenager’s recent dip in form has drawn criticism, especially after a quiet showing against Getafe, where he was subbed off early following a minor on-pitch disagreement with David Alaba. But Alonso brushed off any concerns, explaining that these are normal stages for a young player still adjusting to a new culture and playing style.
Real Madrid enter the Juventus clash with a perfect record in this season’s UCL, having won both opening fixtures, while Juventus remain winless after back-to-back poor results. Alonso warned that Madrid can’t take the Italians lightly but confirmed Mastantuono remains very much in the plans.
