Real Madrid’s stance on teenage prodigy’s wish to rejoin former club on loan – report | OneFootball

It has been evident for quite some time now that Real Madrid are keen on sending the talented Franco Mastantuono on loan to aid his development.

The Argentine youngster joined Los Blancos from River Plate last summer and had a strong start under Xabi Alonso before slowly fizzling out.

It emerged yesterday that the teenager was keen on going back out on loan to River Plate, the club at which he made a name for himself.

Now, according to Ramon Alvarez de Mon, Real Madrid’s position is very different, with the club believing his development should continue in European football.

Real Madrid have a different vision

Mastantuono wishes to return to River Plate. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)

Real Madrid are firmly against the idea of sending Mastantuono back to Argentina, despite the emotional appeal of returning to River Plate.

Instead, the club reportedly feel the 19-year-old should continue his progression in Europe, where he can adapt to the tactical demands, intensity and level of competition that will better prepare him for a long-term future at the Santiago Bernabeu.

The stance is very understandable from Los Blancos’ perspective. They would want a talented player like Mastantuono to play in Europe to adapt and be ready to play a role in the first team in the near future.

European development remains the priority

Mastantuono has already shown encouraging signs during pre-season under Jose Mourinho, producing confident performances and getting on the scoresheet in Real Madrid’s recent training matches.

Where will Mastantuono play next season? (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)

While regular playing time will remain an important consideration, Madrid seemingly believe those minutes should come in Europe if a loan ever becomes necessary.

Rather than delaying his transition to European football, the club want him to continue growing in the environment where they eventually expect him to succeed.

What Mastantuono needs now is a club where he gets regular, competitive minutes.

A move back to River Plate would offer him a comfortable environment, but that may not be what the 18-year-old needs right now.

What he needs right now is to play in an environment Madrid believe is right for him, and it remains to be seen whether the club get him to align with that vision.