Madrid's Tightrope: Real Madrid's Rising Star Faces a looming 2026 Buyback Twist
28 December 2025
Mastantuono's precarious position at Real Madrid
Argentine Franco Mastantuono finds himself at a pivotal moment with Real Madrid, as his playing time has dwindled in recent months. Once a starter in several fixtures, he has become a limited option, with inconsistent form prompting coach Xabi Alonso to lean away from him.
Spanish tabloid AS reports that Mastantuono is 'on a tightrope,' his status tied to developments around Nico Bazz, who has impressed on loan with Como in Italy. Madrid are watching closely, since Bazz's performances could push the club to rethink their attacking options.
Madrid holds a buyback clause allowing a return for around 9 to 10 million euros in the summer of 2026, a potential option for management if the Italian stint continues to progress.
AS argues that Bazz's experience in Serie A has nurtured tactical maturity and regular participation, potentially increasing his case to rejoin the first team if he keeps growing.
Against this backdrop, Mastantuono faces a clear need to respond before 2026 reshuffles the squad, though final decisions remain pending the shape of next season's performances.
Nico Bazz, Como and the looming 2026 buyback
AS suggests that the Italian spell could feed Real Madrid’s future plans, with Bazz's development potentially widening the competition for forward roles in the first team.
Madrid’s clause to recall Bazz in 2026 for around 9-10 million euros remains a tool for strategic flexibility, should his growth continue in Italy.
In this context, Mastantuono must show tangible improvement to keep the club’s long-term plans aligned with its talent pipeline.
In short, it’s a business as usual for the football world’s tiny chess game: move a piece, watch it grow, or cut it loose with a smile.
Punchline: If Mastantuono keeps walking this tightrope, Real Madrid might install a safety net with a club logo—free admission to the transfer window.
Punchline 2: In the end, football’s drama is simple: a good loan, a buyback clause, and a fan base hoping the popcorn doesn’t burn.
