Franco Mastantuono has officialy become Real Madrid’s third major signing of the summer as he joins the club from River Plate.
Mastantuono is joining on the back of a stellar spell at River Plate and is regarded as one of the most talented players in South America.
Naturally, the Argentine will face a lot of pressure, not just because of his price tag but also because of the standard expectation associated with any Real Madrid new signing.
Javier Mascherano backs Mastantuono
But as the young Argentine gears up for a new chapter in his career, he has received some much-needed support from compatriot Javier Mascherano.
In a recent interview with Diario OLE, the former Barcelona midfielder explained why he understands the youngster’s decision to join Real Madrid.
“He’s taking a big step, he’s at one of the best teams you can be at in the world like River, but when teams like Real Madrid and Barcelona come looking for you, it’s hard to say no,” he said.
Can Franco Mastantuono live up to his name at Real Madrid? (Photo by Marcelo Endelli/Getty Images)
A Barcelona legend with over 330 competitive appearances for the club, Mascherano certainly knows a thing or two about playing at the highest level of football.
Now of course, the Argentine has kickstarted his coaching career and is currently in charge of Inter Miami, where he works with former teammates Lionel Messi, Sergio Busquets, Jordi Alba and Luis Suarez.
Nevertheless, Mascherano’s statement will certainly serve as a confidence-booster for Mastantuono as he looks to move on from River Plate and build a legacy at Real Madrid.
The club’s new coach Xabi Alonso already has big plans for the Argentine international and may even offer him a place in the starting eleven next season.
It must also be noted that Mastantuono has become Real Madrid’s first Argentine signing since Angel Di Maria, who signed for the club 15 years ago.
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