Franco Mastantuono has made his debut with Real Madrid, leaving a great impression and generating high expectations among the fans. At just 18 years old, he played about 30 minutes in the match against Osasuna and did so well that Santiago Bernabéu chanted his name. However, not everything was positive, at least from Florentino Pérez's point of view, who ended up clearly upset about one particular aspect.
Mastantuono's outstanding performance was overshadowed by the chants of his name at Santiago Bernabéu. Instead of calling him "Mastan" as in Argentina, the crowd chanted "Franco, Franco, Franco". The problem is that his first name matches that of the dictator who ruled Spain years ago, and Real Madrid strongly dislikes the possibility of associating both concepts.
Banned at Real Madrid
This is why Real Madrid has made the final decision not to allow the name "Franco" to be printed on the back of the jersey. The customization system automatically blocks this option, sending a clear message: "We're sorry. Our customization policy doesn't allow the use of this name".
It's important to remember that the player wears Mastantuono on the jersey with the number 30, something he already did in Argentina.
The issue here is that this policy has been introduced recently and only with the name Franco. For example, other names can be entered without any problem, such as Mussolini or Stalin. Meanwhile, the one that's banned is Hitler, but not phrases like "Gota ETA".
Maximum trust
Real Madrid has found in Franco Mastantuono one of its greatest gems for the present and future. At just 18 years old, the Argentine has already officially debuted with the first team under Xabi Alonso's orders, leaving a very good impression in his debut against Osasuna.
In that match, Mastantuono enjoyed 30 minutes of play, enough time to show his personality, boldness, and talent in midfield. His ability to provide solutions with the ball at his feet, his tactical intelligence, and his freshness in attack have convinced the Basque coach, who sees him as a game-changing footballer.
In fact, according to reports, Xabi Alonso is seriously considering giving him a starting spot in the second LaLiga matchday, when Real Madrid faces Real Oviedo. This decision would be a clear show of trust in a player who has just arrived at the elite level, but who behaves with the maturity of a veteran.
Madrid knows it has a star project in its hands and doesn't want to slow down his progress. The sporting management is already working to secure his future, while the coaching staff sees him as ready to contribute right now.
Bernabéu has welcomed Franco Mastantuono with enthusiasm and Madridist fans are already starting to dream of seeing him established in the starting eleven. Xabi Alonso's bet is clear: the Argentine isn't here to wait, but to grow by playing.