Maldini admits whether Mastantuono is a hit or a mistake for Real Madrid

Franco Mastantuono made his debut as a starter with Real Madrid this past Sunday at Carlos Tartiere on a night he will never forget. Just nine days after his first training session with the team, Xabi Alonso showed his full trust in him. The footballer, who had already made his debut in the first matchday, was included in the starting line-up instead of Brahim Díaz on the right wing.

The Argentine, who started the match on the right wing and later moved to the center, produced some good plays. In fact, in the 15th minute, he was brought down under a tough challenge by two opposing players and appealed for a penalty, although the referee let play continue. The left-footed Argentine, developed at River Plate, thus showed his boldness in his first start.

Franco Mastantuono, a bold player

Ten minutes later, Franco Mastantuono had his first attempt on goal. The young player from Azul received a pass from Fede Valverde, set himself up, and unleashed a powerful left-footed shot that, after deflecting off Luka Ilic, went just over the crossbar.

In the first half, Franco Mastantuono stood out for his constant involvement in creating play, combining with Güler and helping to move the ball in the opponent's half.Real Madrid kept sustained pressure on the opposing area, which forced Aaron Escandell to make several saves to prevent a goal.

In the second half, as the minutes went by, Franco Mastantuono gradually lost presence. The Argentine worked hard in pressing and, not being physically adapted, had to be substituted.

Julio "Maldini"'s assessment of Mastantuono

Julio "Maldini" spoke about Franco Mastantuono's match against Real Oviedo. "I think Mastantuono had a very good first half. It's true he may have lacked some sharpness in the final third, but he'll achieve that, don't have any doubt", he commented.

"He's a player who is constantly involved in the game. He can start from the right side of the attack, but he always looks for much more central positions. He starts, passes inside, and quickly looks for central positions behind the striker", he noted.