Seeing the young Argentine attacking midfielder sign for Real Madrid reminded former forward Javier Saviola of the early days of his own career.
Saviola, who played for the Spanish giants, is excited about Franco Mastantuono, the talented 17-year-old Argentine, and believes he is a perfect fit for one of Europe’s most successful clubs.
Real Madrid announced on Friday that they have signed Mastantuono from Argentine club River Plate on a six-year deal. In an interview with Spanish sports daily Marca, Saviola said watching this attacking midfielder brought back memories of his own beginnings.
“It reminds me a lot of my first steps. I made my debut for River Plate at 16 and was at Barcelona by 19. Mastantuono is now going through a similar experience.”
Mastantuono caught the attention of Europe’s top clubs with impressive performances for River Plate and Argentina’s youth teams. Despite his young age, he reads the game exceptionally well and is comfortable with the ball at his feet. This versatility allows him to play both as a right winger and a midfielder with ease.
Earlier this month, he made his debut for the Argentina national team in a World Cup qualifier against Chile, becoming the youngest player ever to play a competitive match for the senior side.
Saviola praised him further by comparing him to other young stars like Barcelona’s Lamine Yamal and former Real Madrid attacking midfielder James Rodríguez.
“In my opinion, he is not like Lamine Yamal. But he is like James Rodríguez. The kind of player Real Madrid loves.”
Rodríguez was known from early on as a phenomenal talent, emerging as one of Latin America’s brightest young stars. He spent four years at Real Madrid, although his club career didn’t reach the expected heights due to off-field issues.
Mastantuono won’t join Real Madrid immediately. He will play in the Club World Cup with River Plate and will officially join the Santiago Bernabéu squad after turning 18 on August 14.
Saviola, now 43, believes adapting quickly to the new environment will be key for the young player.
“The hardest part is leaving your surroundings and stepping out of your comfort zone. Adapting fast is important. If someone can handle the pressure of playing at River Plate, then they are ready for Real Madrid.”
