Franco Mastantuono prepares for his Real Madrid debut in the LaLiga opener against Osasuna

Xabi Alonso plans to give Argentine youngster his first minutes at the Santiago Bernabéu

Franco Mastantuono is expected to make his official Real Madrid debut when the club opens its LaLiga campaign against Osasuna on Tuesday (19), at the Santiago Bernabéu. According to Diario AS, coach Xabi Alonso has included the 16-year-old Argentine in his plans and could hand him minutes off the bench in the season opener.

Xabi Alonso Backs Mastantuono

Signed from River Plate this summer for €45 million, Mastantuono was a personal request from Alonso, who sees him as a long-term solution for the right wing. The youngster missed Madrid’s recent friendly against WSG Tirol to continue fitness work, but has impressed in training sessions leading up to the league debut.

“He has integrated quickly, he’s eager, and we expect him to contribute during the season,” sources close to the staff told AS.

Battle for the Right Wing

Real Madrid’s attack is led by Vinícius Júnior on the left and Kylian Mbappé through the center, but the right flank remains an open contest. Rodrygo, once undisputed, has seen his influence wane, opening the door for Mastantuono and Brahim Díaz to compete for the spot.

While Alonso may stick with last season’s trio to start, the Argentine teenager is being groomed to challenge for regular minutes and potentially become a cornerstone of Madrid’s future attack.

Excitement Around the Bernabéu

Despite absences including Antonio Rüdiger, Eduardo Camavinga, Jude Bellingham, and Endrick, Madrid’s coaching staff are confident the team will make a strong debut. Mastantuono’s performances in training have fueled excitement among fans and staff alike, with many eager to see if he can replicate the explosiveness he showed at River Plate.