In a moment meant to celebrate his arrival, Franco Mastantuono Real Madrid’s newest Argentine sensation has ignited debate across the football world by declaring Lionel Messi the greatest player of all time. The comment, made during his official unveiling at the Santiago Bernabéu on August 14, coincided with his 18th birthday and has stirred mixed reactions among Madrid fans.
Mastantuono, signed from River Plate in a deal worth over €40 million, was presented with the number 30 jersey and welcomed by club president Florentino Pérez. While expressing deep admiration for Real Madrid and excitement about joining the squad under head coach Xabi Alonso, the young midfielder didn’t shy away from his national pride.
“For me, the best player in the world is Messi. I’m Argentine, and for me, he’s the best,” Mastantuono said, a statement that reverberated through the Bernabéu and beyond.
The praise for Messi Barcelona’s legendary figure and Real Madrid’s historic rival was seen by many fans as a breach of an unwritten club tradition. Online reactions ranged from disbelief to humor, with some supporters joking that Mastantuono had skipped the part of his contract requiring loyalty to Cristiano Ronaldo, Madrid’s own icon.
Despite the controversy, Mastantuono’s talent is undeniable. Touted as one of South America’s brightest prospects, he’s expected to play a key role in Madrid’s future. Though registered with Real Madrid Castilla for now, he remains part of the first-team plans and could make his debut in the upcoming La Liga opener against Osasuna on August 19.
Whether his Messi admiration will fade into the background or continue to shadow his early days in Madrid, one thing is clear: Mastantuono has arrived with honesty, confidence, and a bold voice ready to make his mark on the world’s biggest football stage.
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