Real Madrid faces an unexpected setback at the start of this season. The main figure is Franco Mastantuono, one of the players who generates the most excitement among the white fans and who has quickly become an important footballer for Xabi Alonso.
According to the program "Jugones", he could miss up to one month of competition due to a non-sporting reason that has sparked debate at Santiago Bernabéu.
Argentina wants to take Mastantuono
The Argentina national team is working to bring the young Real Madrid talent into the squad ahead of the upcoming U-20 World Cup. The draft begins on September 15, while the tournament is scheduled between September 27 and October 19, the date when the final will be played.
This would pose a dilemma for Real Madrid, since if Franco Mastantuono takes part in the championship, he would miss a key part of the season. This is not a mandatory FIFA date, so the white club has the authority to decide whether to release him or not.
Seven matches hanging in the air
The possible absence schedule is what worries Xabi Alonso and Real Madrid the most. If Mastantuono travels with Argentina and reaches the final rounds, he could miss seven official matches with the white club.
Specifically, the matches would be against: Olympique de Marseille, Espanyol, Levante, Atlético de Madrid, Kairat Almaty, Villarreal, and Getafe. That list includes key clashes, such as the Madrid classic or Champions League commitments that could shape the club's European campaign.
The final word, in Real Madrid's hands
Unlike other international tournaments, the U-20 World Cup doesn't require clubs to release their players. That means Real Madrid holds the decision to keep Mastantuono in the merengue squad. According to "Jugones", the club considers it "very complicated" to give approval. Especially because the footballer is getting important minutes with the first team and the sporting plan can't afford to lose him for so long.
The importance of Mastantuono for Xabi Alonso
Franco Mastantuono's impact has been immediate since he broke into Real Madrid. At just 18 years old, he has earned Xabi Alonso's trust and found a spot on the right wing, competing head-to-head with more experienced players. His technical quality, boldness, and ability to create imbalance have made him a fan favorite.
That's why his possible absence wouldn't be a minor detail, but a significant loss for the team during a demanding stretch of the season.
At Real Madrid, they are aware of how important it could be for Mastantuono to have an international experience with the Albiceleste. But they also understand that the club must look after its interests. As of today, the white club's stance is firm: not to release the player.
The final decision will be known soon, but everything suggests that Real Madrid will prioritize its sporting project over the World Cup adventure. The message is clear: Franco Mastantuono is essential and won't leave Santiago Bernabéu this fall.