The “new Messi” expected at Real Madrid next season
Real Madrid is preparing to welcome one of the greatest prospects in Argentine football. According to the latest information relayed by the highly regarded Fabrizio Romano, Franco Mastantuono, the young River Plate star often compared to Lionel Messi, has agreed to join the Madrid club.
At just 17 years old, the Argentinian attacking midfielder has already made a name for himself with his precocious talent and playing style reminiscent of the seven-time Ballon d’Or winner. Courted by Paris Saint-Germain, the recently crowned European champions, Mastantuono ultimately decided in favor of the Casa Blanca, a club he has dreamed of joining since he was a child.
Despite strong interest from PSG, eager to strengthen their squad with this young prodigy, the Argentine chose Real Madrid, attracted by the Madrid project and long-established contacts. This choice represents a hard blow for Parisian fans who had hoped to see him wear the colors of the capital club.
According to several concordant sources, Mastantuono is expected to return to Spain after playing in the Club World Cup with River Plate. His integration into the Real Madrid squad is scheduled for July 2025.
He will then play under the orders of Xabi Alonso, recently appointed Real Madrid coach to replace Carlo Ancelotti. It remains to be seen what his exact place will be in the Spanish coach’s tactical setup, which is still unclear at this stage.
