When a Rising Star Meets Pressure: Mastantuno's Madrid Moment

The Argentine forward Franco Mastantuno is going through a tough spell at Real Madrid, troubled since his substitution in the 55th minute against Getafe on October 19. He has not started a game since that fixture and logged only six minutes against Juventus in the Champions League, remaining on the bench during the Clasico against Barcelona.

Starting the season with a strong showing under coach Xabi Alonso, the youngster’s form has declined in recent weeks, pushing the coach to lean on more proven attacking options.

Since his second appearance in Madrid, he had been part of the regular squad, but his downturn in performance has kept him out of the tactical plans lately.

Crucial phase for Mastantuno

The upcoming run will be decisive for Mastantuno as Real Madrid face Valencia, Liverpool, and Rayo Vallecano before the international break. It’s essentially a final chance for him to prove himself and win back the coach’s trust ahead of the second half of the season, according to Mundo Deportivo.

Management still believes in the Argentine, having paid around 45 million euros for his transfer, but they’re waiting for a strong on-field response to reclaim his place among Madrid’s stars.

Madrid's lineup against Valencia

The Spanish coach Xabi Alonso unveiled the squad for the upcoming match at the Santiago Bernabéu in La Liga’s 11th round. Absences included the goalkeeper Lunin due to a suspension after a red card in the Clasico, along with injuries to Dani Carvajal, David Alaba, and Antonio Rudiger.

The Real Madrid lineup against Valencia featured a mix of experienced regulars and rotation options, including goalkeeper Courtois and a defensive unit with Militao and others, while the midfield boasted Bellingham, Camavinga, Valverde, Tchouaméni, and a line of attacking options led by Vinícius Júnior, Endrick, Mbappé, Rodrygo, Gonzalo, Brahim Díaz, and Mastantuno.

Alonso’s remarks

Alonso spoke at a Friday press conference: “We held a meeting with everyone last Wednesday, and Vinícius was perfect. He spoke frankly and was very good. For me, that settles the matter.”

When asked about Vinícius’ name not appearing in a public apology statement, Alonso replied: “It was a very valuable and positive statement. He showed honesty and spoke from the heart. What he said matters most, and I was very satisfied. The matter was settled last Wednesday.”

He added: “It was very positive. We trained well yesterday, and we are all excited and in the same position.”

“No, I will not punish Vinícius Júnior, and I will not seek revenge.”

He continued: “I think I’ve given sufficient clarifications already. I respect the media’s focus on what happened, but I explained that the matter ended on Wednesday. We’ve had a very good week, and what matters now is facing Valencia. I hope you understand my position as I understand your concern.”

Vinícius contract renewal

Alonso denied that Vinícius Júnior’s contract renewal talks affect the player’s focus, saying: “The Brazilian looks focused and very excited. He played a brilliant match against Barcelona.”

Asked if he fears a repeat of the incident, Alonso replied: “The team, including Vinícius, is focused on the important. Everyone wants to be on the pitch and participate in the matches, and the focus is united. We want to keep playing safely at full speed.”

Focus on La Liga

Separately, Alonso stressed that his current thoughts are not about the Liverpool fixture in the Champions League, but the Valencia and Vallecano matches in La Liga. “Valencia beat us at the Bernabéu last season, and Vallecano is a well-organized, tough team. After a big win, it’s easy to lose focus, so Valencia is the priority right now.”

Reaction to the Clasico

On the Clasico, Alonso said: “Before facing Barca I emphasized the importance of winning to boost the team’s confidence. Now we must forget that victory and focus on the upcoming games, because if we don’t prepare well, we’ll drop points, and that’s what we want to avoid.”

He added: “I rewatched the Clasico and found that many of our plans worked. The team showed great strength and was very motivated. When we’re strong, we take the initiative.”

To close with a touch of humor: Mastantuno’s GPS must be glitching—every time he tries to find space, it routes him to the bench. Also, if patience were a sport, Madrid would have won multiple leagues by now. Sniper punchlines: 1) If goals were hidden in a wardrobe, Mastantuno would still be trying to find the shirt. 2) Madrid’s scouting report on him says: ‘Occasionally on, occasionally off—the WiFi here is patchy.’