Franco Mastantuono: River Plate’s 17-Year-Old Prodigy Poised for Real Madrid Move

Posted : 10 June 2025

Franco Mastantuono, a dazzling 17-year-old talent from River Plate, has emerged as one of the most exciting prospects in Argentine football. Gifted with remarkable vision, exceptional ball control, and a left foot that delivers stunning free-kicks, Mastantuono has already drawn comparisons to legends like Maradona and Messi.

His debut for Argentina's national team in a World Cup qualifier at just 17 years and 295 days made him the youngest ever to appear in an official match for the Albiceleste, surpassing even Lionel Messi's record. Those close to Argentine football, including former national player Matias Almeida, see him as a generational talent destined for greatness.

His ascent to stardom has been marked by unforgettable moments, including a sensational free-kick goal in his first Superclásico against Boca Juniors—a moment that instantly elevated his reputation. River Plate coach Marcelo Gallardo, recognizing the pressures of such fame, even intervened to delay one of Franco’s school exams to allow the youngster to recover and prepare. Franco’s rise has not just been rapid but also extraordinary; in February 2024, he became the youngest goalscorer in River Plate history, breaking a long-standing record once held by Javier Saviola.

Mastantuono’s early years were spent balancing two sports, football and tennis, the latter of which he excelled in as a child. However, his passion for football ultimately prevailed, and after joining River Plate's academy, his development accelerated rapidly.

Coach Martin Demichelis brought him into the first team in early 2024, and under Gallardo’s guidance, Franco has matured into a key playmaker. Though initially eased into the squad, he quickly became a fan favorite with his technical brilliance and composure under pressure—traits rarely seen at such a young age.

Now, top European clubs have taken notice, with Manchester United, Chelsea, and PSG all showing interest. Yet it is Real Madrid that has moved decisively, encouraged by former player Santiago Solari and backed by club president Florentino Pérez. The €45 million transfer is expected to be finalized soon, with Mastantuono set to join after River Plate’s Club World Cup campaign.

At the Bernabéu, hopes are high that he could be the club’s answer to Barcelona’s Lamine Yamal, and potentially the first Argentine since Alfredo Di Stéfano to redefine Madrid’s legacy in the Clásico. Despite the growing spotlight, Franco remains grounded, recently insisting that fame hasn’t changed him—a modest outlook that could serve him well on football’s biggest stage.

Franco Mastantuono: River Plate’s 17-Year-Old Prodigy Poised for Real Madrid Move

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