Dhaka, Aug. 19 — Real Madrid coach Xabi Alonso has praised teenage signing Franco Mastantuono for his maturity while playing down the Argentine’s choice of Lionel Messi as the world’s best player.
The 18-year-old midfielder recently signed a six-year contract with Madrid and, during his unveiling last week, said he considered compatriot Messi the greatest player.
it’s perfectly normal for messi to be his role model,” alonso said to journalists on monday. “he’s argentine and uses his left foot, so i’m not surprised.
Mastantuono’s remarks, which referenced a Barcelona legend and long-time rival of Madrid, drew headlines in Spain and left some Madrid fans displeased. For over a decade, Messi battled Cristiano Ronaldo, who is regarded by many as Madrid’s all-time great, during the iconic La Liga rivalry. Ronaldo now plays for Al-Nassr in Saudi Arabia, while Messi is with Inter Miami in Major League Soccer.
Madrid secured Mastantuono from River Plate after he turned 18, reportedly paying €45 million ($52.5 million) for the transfer.
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Alonso said he was impressed by the youngster’s personality early on. “When I first spoke to him at 17, he was confident and unfazed by the prospect of joining Real Madrid. His maturity has stood out since day one. I’m convinced he’ll adapt quickly on and off the pitch.”
The trainer suggested that Mastantuono could be included in Madrid’s La Liga match against Osasuna on Tuesday.
He will provide us with quality and enthusiasm, along with a powerful defensive approach,” Alonso remarked. “He possesses that Argentinian fighter mentality coupled with excellent skill and an outstanding left foot, whether during set pieces or the last assist. He’s young, yet he’s already competing at a reliable standard. It’s our responsibility to mentor him.
Source: Agency