Mastantuono Opens Heart About Childhood Real Madrid Dreams: “Since I Grew Up, I’ve Seen Them Win Many Champions Leagues”

In an emotionally charged first press conference as a Real Madrid player, Franco Mastantuono revealed the childhood memories that shaped his dream of joining Los Blancos. The emotion in the 18-year-old Argentine sensation’s voice was unmistakable as he completed his €65 million move from River Plate, sharing intimate details about watching Real Madrid’s Champions League triumphs during his formative years. “I grew up watching Real Madrid win many Champions League titles and winning a lot in Europe. It was incredible in those few years, that was my first memory,” the wonderkid revealed during his inaugural press conference at Real Madrid City, declaring those victories as his lasting memories of the world’s most successful club.

A Promise to the Fans

In a passionate speech to the Real Madrid supporters, Mastantuono made a heartfelt commitment that encapsulated his dedication to the club. “It’s a special day to join Real Madrid, the biggest club in the world. It’s a day I’ll remember for the rest of my life. Thanks to all the people of Argentina, who are very special to me. I have to keep learning, but I promise I will leave my life on the pitch for this jersey. The fans will be with one more fan inside the stadium. Thanks to everyone, and Hala Madrid!”

This emotional declaration demonstrates the depth of feeling that Mastantuono has for his new club and his understanding of what it means to represent Real Madrid. His promise to “leave his life on the pitch” resonates with the passion and commitment that the club’s supporters expect from their players.

August 14, 2025: A Dream Fulfilled on His 18th Birthday

August 14, 2025, will forever remain etched in Mastantuono’s memory as the day his childhood dream became reality. Coinciding with his 18th birthday, Real Madrid officially presented their newest signing in a ceremony that marked both his coming of age and his arrival at the summit of world football.

“I’m very happy, it makes me happy in my body. I always had the dream of playing for Real Madrid, and especially on my birthday, so I’m very happy to have this dream come true,” Mastantuono explained, his gratitude evident as he reflected on the significance of joining the club he had admired since childhood.

The timing couldn’t have been more perfect. FIFA regulations prevented Mastantuono from officially joining Real Madrid until his 18th birthday, making his presentation ceremony a double celebration that symbolized his transition from promising teenager to professional footballer at the world’s most prestigious club.

From River Plate to the Santiago Bernabéu

Real Madrid’s pursuit of Mastantuono represents one of the most significant investments in young talent in recent years. The €65 million transfer fee makes it the most expensive deal in Argentine football history, surpassing previous records and demonstrating Los Blancos’ commitment to securing South America’s brightest prospect.

“My first dream as a player was to play at River and it came true. I was born there, it’s the biggest team in the Americas in my opinion,” Mastantuono acknowledged, paying tribute to his former club while expressing his excitement about the next chapter. “Many players have joined Real Madrid from River… so it’s a great honour to be here.”

The young midfielder’s journey from River Plate’s academy to Real Madrid represents a meteoric rise that began when he became the youngest goalscorer in River Plate’s history in February 2024. His exceptional performances caught the attention of Europe’s elite clubs, but it was Real Madrid’s approach that ultimately won his heart.

Xabi Alonso’s Crucial Role in the Transfer

One of the most significant factors in Mastantuono’s decision to join Real Madrid was the personal approach from head coach Xabi Alonso. The Spanish tactician’s direct communication with the teenager played a pivotal role in convincing him to choose the Santiago Bernabéu over other interested clubs.

“Xabi called me, it was very important for me that the coach showed so much belief in me. Obviously what we spoke about is private, but it gave me a lot of belief. It was my dream to play for Real Madrid and to happen like that, it meant a lot,” Mastantuono revealed, highlighting the importance of feeling wanted by the coaching staff.

This personal touch from Alonso demonstrates Real Madrid’s sophisticated approach to talent acquisition, understanding that young players need emotional connection alongside financial incentives. The conversation between coach and player proved decisive in fending off competition from Paris Saint-Germain, who had also shown strong interest in the Argentine prospect.

Playing Style and Positional Versatility

When asked to describe his playing characteristics, Mastantuono showed the humility that has endeared him to fans and teammates alike. “I’m an offensive player, left-footed, who almost always plays on the right. I don’t like to describe myself as a player very much, I prefer others to do it.”

Despite his reluctance to self-analyze, football experts have identified Mastantuono as a versatile attacking midfielder with exceptional technical ability. His left-footed precision and ability to operate from various positions make him an ideal fit for Real Madrid’s tactical system under Xabi Alonso.

“I’m going to play where the coach decides. I’m here to help the team. I’m more accustomed to playing on the right, coming inside, but wherever I play, my plan is to connect with my team-mates and to do what the coach thinks is best for the team,” he emphasized, demonstrating the team-first mentality that Real Madrid values in their players. His adaptability allows him to function as a traditional number 10, drift wide to create overloads, or operate as a secondary striker depending on tactical requirements.

The Significance of Jersey Number 30

In a touching moment during the press conference, Mastantuono revealed the personal significance behind his choice of jersey number. “I asked the president to wear the number 30. It’s a special number for me as I wore it at River. He accepted and let me, which makes me very excited to keep using that number.“

This attention to detail reflects the emotional connection Mastantuono maintains with his River Plate roots while embracing his new challenge at Real Madrid. The continuity of wearing number 30 provides a tangible link between his past achievements and future ambitions.

Argentine Legacy at Real Madrid

Mastantuono joins a distinguished line of Argentine players who have represented Real Madrid throughout the club’s history. During his press conference, he acknowledged this heritage while expressing his determination to carve out his own legacy.

“I watched all the Argentinian players who have been at Real Madrid, I’ve admired them all. I couldn’t see Alfredo Di Stéfano, but I could see Di María, Higuaín,” he reflected, showing respect for the Argentine players who paved the way before him.

The young midfielder also didn’t shy away from expressing his admiration for Lionel Messi, stating: “For me the best player in the world is Messi. I’m Argentine, and in the last few years he’s been the best player in the world.” This comment demonstrates his pride in Argentine football while acknowledging the standard of excellence expected at Real Madrid.

Early Impressions and Team Integration

Mastantuono’s first encounters with his new teammates have been overwhelmingly positive, particularly his meeting with Jude Bellingham during medical examinations. “Today, I was here with Jude, I bumped into him doing the medical. He welcomed me marvellously. I admire him a lot, I watched him a lot from Argentina and I was very lucky to meet him and for him to welcome me.”

This warm welcome from established stars like Bellingham indicates the positive atmosphere within the Real Madrid squad and suggests that Mastantuono’s integration will be smooth. The mutual respect between young talents from different continents exemplifies the international character of modern Real Madrid.

Transfer Details and Contract Specifications

Mastantuono’s Career Timeline

Competitive Landscape and Market Impact

The successful acquisition of Mastantuono represents a significant victory for Real Madrid in the competitive South American talent market. The club’s ability to outmaneuver Paris Saint-Germain demonstrates their continued appeal to young players and their willingness to invest heavily in future stars.

“Well, yes, it’s true that many teams were interested in me, and I appreciate that and respect them. It’s very nice for me to have so much interest. I had the luck to be able to talk to Luis Enrique, he was very clear with me and I appreciated it,” Mastantuono acknowledged, showing class in recognizing PSG’s interest while explaining his ultimate choice.

Future Ambitions and World Cup Dreams

Looking ahead, Mastantuono has set his sights on both club and international success. His immediate focus remains on establishing himself at Real Madrid, but he hasn’t forgotten about the 2026 World Cup.

“I’m focused on right now. Obviously my objective is to be at the World Cup. I want to start training now with the first team tomorrow, have my head focused on that, and then think about the World Cup,” he stated, demonstrating the ambition that drove him to make the leap to European football at such a young age.

His dual focus on immediate integration and long-term goals reflects the maturity that has impressed observers throughout his rapid rise. The opportunity to learn from world-class players while competing at the highest level should accelerate his development and increase his chances of World Cup selection.

Media Exposure and Pressure Management

Despite his youth, Mastantuono showed remarkable composure when addressing questions about media pressure and expectations at Real Madrid. “I’m calm, honest, just like always in my life. No-one has to lie, that’s what I will do and continue to do.”

His experience at River Plate, where media attention is intense, has prepared him for the spotlight that comes with representing Real Madrid. “I understand the publicity footballers get, especially at Real Madrid, just like at River in Argentina. It’s a part of the beautiful job that I get to do, so I will keep do what I’m doing,” he explained, showing awareness of the similarities between both clubs’ media environments.

The Champions League Connection

Perhaps the most revealing moment of the press conference came when Mastantuono elaborated on his childhood memories of Real Madrid’s Champions League success. “It was historic, I hope we can do more like that with me as a player like I watched when I was a boy,” he expressed, hoping to contribute to future European triumphs.

These memories of watching Real Madrid’s Champions League victories serve as both inspiration and motivation for the young Argentine. Having witnessed the club’s dominance in European competition from afar, he now has the opportunity to contribute to writing new chapters in that storied history.

Franco Mastantuono’s first press conference as a Real Madrid player revealed a mature, humble, and ambitious young talent who understands both the privilege and responsibility of representing Los Blancos. His childhood memories of watching Real Madrid win Champions League titles have transformed from distant dreams into immediate reality.

The €65 million investment represents more than just a financial commitment; it’s a statement of faith in a player whose potential appears limitless. As Mastantuono prepares to don the famous white shirt, his journey from Argentine wonderkid to Real Madrid player serves as inspiration for young footballers worldwide.

With Xabi Alonso’s guidance, supportive teammates, and his own determination to succeed, Mastantuono is positioned to become the next great Argentine success story at the Santiago Bernabéu. His childhood memories of Real Madrid’s Champions League triumphs may soon be replaced by his own contributions to the club’s legendary history.

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