Franco Mastantuono Set to Stay at Real Madrid Following Pre-Season Impresssion
Real Madrid head coach Jose Mourinho has reportedly blocked an exit for young attacker Franco Mastantuono this summer. Despite a challenging first season at the Santiago Bernabéu, the 18-year-old has impressed significantly during the early stages of pre-season, convincing Mourinho to retain him for the upcoming campaign.
A Difficult Debut Season at Real Madrid
Mastantuono’s 2025-26 season was a struggle by Real Madrid standards. The teenager managed only three goals and one assist in 35 appearances across all competitions, including a modest one goal in 23 La Liga outings. Given these figures, speculation has been rife about the young forward’s future, with reports suggesting that Real Madrid might be open to letting him depart to gain more experience.
The pressure was understandable considering the high expectations placed on Mastantuono after his move from River Plate, where he boasted an impressive record of 10 goals and seven assists in 64 appearances. However, adjusting to one of Europe’s biggest clubs and the demands of top-flight Spanish football is a steep learning curve for any young player.
Mourinho’s Influence: A Decision to Keep Mastantuono
According to Marca, the tide appears to have turned in Mastantuono’s favor. His early pre-season performances have impressed Jose Mourinho greatly, prompting the coach to block any permanent exit deals this summer. While a loan move later in the transfer window has not been completely ruled out—potentially to provide Mastantuono with more playing time—Mourinho is keen on keeping the attacker within the squad.
This endorsement from Mourinho signals belief in the young forward’s potential to contribute to the team next season. It also reflects the manager’s confidence that Mastantuono can develop further under his guidance.
Tactical Opportunities and Squad Competition
Mastantuono primarily operates as a right-sided attacker, a position of particular interest due to current squad dynamics. Notably, Rodrygo remains sidelined for a lengthy period due to injury, which potentially opens a spot in Real Madrid’s forward line.
However, Mastantuono face competition from several other talented players vying for the same role, including:
- Arda Guler
- Brahim Diaz
- Bernardo Silva (newly acquired on a free transfer this summer)
This group of attacking options gives Mourinho several tactical choices, but also pressure on Mastantuono to continue demonstrating his value during pre-season.
Real Madrid’s Pre-Season Schedule
Real Madrid is gearing up to launch their pre-season campaign with a friendly against Leganes on July 28 behind closed doors. This will be followed by three more friendlies against Fiorentina, Ferencvarosi, and Deportivo La Coruna to round out their summer schedule.
For Mastantuono, these pre-season games represent crucial opportunities to impress Mourinho and stake his claim for inclusion in the squad for the La Liga opener against Espanyol on August 22. Consistent performances could be key to securing his spot in a Real Madrid side with high ambitions for the coming season.
Looking Ahead
Franco Mastantuono’s story at Real Madrid is far from over. After a tough first season, the young forward is now presented with a renewed chance to make an impact under Jose Mourinho’s guidance. The coaching staff’s renewed faith, combined with some key absences and tactical flexibility, could allow Mastantuono to flourish in the 2026-27 season.
As fans and analysts watch Real Madrid’s pre-season, all eyes will be on the 18-year-old to see if he can finally take the next step in his promising career at one of the world’s biggest clubs.
