Real Madrid defeated Osasuna at the Santiago Bernabéu, showcasing a more attacking response to the visitors’ low block. While Madrid controlled the game with nearly 80% possession in certain phases, their play in the final third lacked fluidity and penetration. Still, the performance reflected Xabi Alonso’s philosophy, even if his team struggled to break down defensive lines.

Looking ahead, the Basque coach could be preparing a major surprise for Sunday’s clash against Real Oviedo.

According to AS, Alonso is considering accelerating Franco Mastantuono’s integration into the first team by handing him a start against Oviedo. Journalist Carlos Forjanes reports that the coaching staff believe the 18-year-old Argentine is ready, especially after his promising debut against Osasuna. Mastantuono came close to scoring and recorded 28 actions on the ball, compared to 41 from Brahim Díaz, despite the latter playing almost double the minutes.

Meanwhile, Rodrygo Goes didn’t feature at all, underlining his current position at the bottom of Alonso’s right-wing pecking order.

Originally, the plan for Mastantuono was a slow and patient adaptation — gradually easing him in through training sessions and brief appearances. But his impact has been so immediate that expectations have shifted. His debut against Osasuna may have been just the beginning, with this weekend’s fixture against Oviedo shaping up as a decisive turning point for the young Argentine’s role in Madrid’s season.

********************************************************

You can now download the Madridista News App for free on the Apple Store and Google Play.

You can follow us on Facebook here.

You can follow us on X (Twitter) here.                                                                    

You can follow us on Instagram here.

You can subscribe to our YouTube channel here.

You can follow us on Telegram here.

You can follow us on TikTok here.

You can join our WhatsApp channel here.