Franco Mastantuono labelled ‘not ready’ for Real Madrid

Franco Mastantuono has completed his transfer from River Plate to Real Madrid, facing significant career expectations. The Argentina international remained with River Plate for the FIFA Club World Cup before joining Los Blancos upon turning 18 on August 14.

With the transfer finalized, Mastantuono is immediately part of Xabi Alonso's first-team plans. Midfield injuries at Real Madrid have increased his chances of making a rapid debut.

Despite excitement in Madrid, the move has drawn criticism in Argentina. ESPN journalist Hernán Pereyra claimed Mastantuono moved to Europe "too soon," calling him "very green" and unprepared. Pereyra suggested his $50m valuation stemmed from a single notable goal and criticized a perceived lack of identity, speculating Mastantuono's love for Real Madrid (perhaps from PlayStation) influenced the "rushed" transfer, though he wished the teenager a great career.

Real Madrid's La Liga season opener is against Osasuna on August 19, a date the league refused to postpone. Mastantuono will be involved. Alonso is missing Jude Bellingham and Eduardo Camavinga through injury, with Fede Valverde, Aurelien Tchouameni, and Dani Ceballos expected to start in midfield. Mastantuono is likely to begin on the bench, but Alonso has indicated he will use the young player as soon as possible.