There are just a few days left until Real Madrid fans can finally see Franco Mastantuono in action. The Argentine prodigy signed for the club several weeks ago, but due to FIFA regulations, he cannot wear the white shirt until August 14 — his 18th birthday. On that date, he will officially join Xabi Alonso’s first-team setup.

Gabriel Orlando Rodríguez, River Plate’s youth academy director, spoke to AS about Mastantuono’s qualities and ideal role. "His best position is as a midfielder close to the wing. That’s where he can make the most of his dribbling, passing, vision, and magnificent left foot. Demichelis gave him his debut at River, but Gallardo was key in his final stages of development. He’s a seasoned player."

Mastantuono arrives in Madrid as both a promise and a proven talent. Rodríguez highlighted his extraordinary maturity: "Despite his age, he plays like someone ten years older. His intelligence, vision, and understanding of the game are those of a veteran in a young man’s body. He’s very well-prepared and has a great personality.”

Still, Rodríguez believes the youngster will need time before earning a starting spot: "This is the most important club in the world. Franco will need time to adapt. Even with his maturity and confidence, integrating fully into such a demanding team doesn’t happen overnight.”

What he has no doubt about, however, is the impression Mastantuono will make on the Bernabéu: "Franco will captivate Real Madrid fans. His ball control, composure, and clarity make him a special player. He’s already top-class, and at Madrid, surrounded by world-class players and coached by Alonso, he will grow even more. He has everything to become a star, both for the club and for Argentina.”

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