Franco Mastantuono has turned 18 and has celebrated his coming of age by being presented as a new player for Real Madrid. He did so in grand style at Valdebebas, wearing his number 30 and showing his happiness about the move. After taking the customary photos, he appeared in the press room, where he didn't hold back.
"For me, Messi is..."
As an Argentine, Franco Mastantuono was clear and emphatic about Leo Messi. The former Barcelona star is one of his idols and he didn't hesitate to praise him publicly.
"For me, Leo Messi is the best player in the world. I couldn't see others, like Alfredo (Di Stéfano), but I look up to them a lot," Franco Mastantuono stated.
These words from Real Madrid were received as normal. Unlike other clubs, at Bernabéu there's no planned script and everyone can say what they think is appropriate. It's most normal for someone young and from Argentina like Franco to have Leo Messi as his idol. In fact, even though he plays in Miami, for him he's still the best of all.
A dream fulfilled
In other matters, the Argentine also spoke about his arrival at Real Madrid: "My first dream as a footballer was to play for River, the biggest team in America, which I was able to fulfill. I didn't have the privilege of seeing Di Stéfano, but my grandparents did tell me about him. What he meant for the world of soccer and Real Madrid is huge. It's a joy to go from River to the biggest club in the world."
"Real Madrid is the biggest club on the planet and in history. I'm here to make my own path and I want, above all, Real Madrid's fans to feel happy with what I can do on the field," he continued.
Finally, Franco Mastantuono concluded: "Since I grew up and got older, I saw Madrid winning many Champions Leagues. That was my memory and it was something unbelievable. I hope there can be many more like the ones I saw as a kid."