Real Madrid will register Franco Mastantuono at Castilla to maintain a place in the first team
Argentine prodigy’s presentation set for 14 August as he turns 18
Real Madrid will register Franco Mastantuono with their Castilla squad instead of the first team, in a strategic move to keep a roster spot open for potential transfer opportunities, according to Marca. The 18-year-old midfielder, signed from River Plate, arrives with high expectations after standout performances in Argentine football.
Strategic Squad Management
Club president Florentino Pérez and coach Xabi Alonso are choosing not to fill the squad to maximum capacity. This approach allows immediate registration of a new signing if an irresistible market opportunity arises, without the need to offload another player.
The club has no plans for major spending this summer but remains alert to top-tier reinforcements. Alongside Mastantuono, Real Madrid have already secured Trent Alexander-Arnold, Dean Huijsen, and Álvaro Carreras to bolster their squad.
Presentation Timed with Birthday
Mastantuono’s official presentation will take place tomorrow (14 August) at 8 a.m. (Brasília time) the day he turns 18. Following the presentation, he will address the media in a press conference about his ambitions at the Santiago Bernabéu.
Time to Adapt Before First-Team Role
Capable of playing as an attacking midfielder or right winger, Mastantuono faces competition for minutes in positions where Madrid already boast depth. The plan is for him to gain experience with Castilla and gradually integrate into the first team.
Last season with River Plate, Mastantuono made 22 appearances, scoring seven goals and providing four assists, further cementing his reputation as one of Argentina’s brightest young talents.
