Real Madrid wonderkid’s starting role under serious threat after shaky performances | OneFootball

Real Madrid winger Franco Mastantuono is entering a crucial phase of his season, with growing competition for places and questions about his role in the team. 

The young Argentine remains highly rated at the club, but recent performances have not fully convinced the coaching staff.

According to a recent report from MARCA, Mastantuono is starting to feel pressure from the bench after a run of inconsistent displays. 

The issue is not just his form, but also how his natural qualities fit into the role he has been given at Real Madrid.

Struggling to make an impact

So far, he has struggled to establish himself as a traditional winger, as he does not often beat his man on the outside and instead tends to drift inside in search of space. 

Notably, at River Plate, Mastantuono was at his best as an attacking midfielder. Although he occasionally played on the wing, most of his standout performances came through the middle. 

At Real Madrid, however, that role is already occupied by players like Jude Bellingham and Arda Guler, making it difficult for him to claim a spot there.

Franco Mastantuono is feeling the pressure. (Photo by Denis Doyle/Getty Images)

This season, under both Xabi Alonso and Alvaro Arbeloa, he has mostly featured on the right wing. Despite his attacking struggles, he has remained useful to the team thanks to his defensive work and pressing. 

Been very inconsistent

Arbeloa handed him his first opportunity in the Copa del Rey clash against Albacete, but the night did not go well, as he was substituted in the 77th minute after an underwhelming display. 

He then appeared from the bench against Levante, returned to the starting XI for the match against Villarreal, and started again against Rayo Vallecano.

However, his performance failed to impress, and sections of the crowd even booed him as he left the pitch against Rayo Vallecano. It was a clear sign that patience may be running out.

At the same time, competition for the right wing is increasing, as Brahim Diaz is now available again and Rodrygo has also recovered from injury.

Furthermore, Eduardo Camavinga has occasionally been used in a wider role, while Federico Valverde could also move forward once Trent Alexander-Arnold returns to right-back.

With so many options available, Mastantuono is now facing real pressure to improve.