Signing for the future: Real Madrid have full faith in summer arrival despite slow start | OneFootball

Franco Mastantuono is finally beginning to find his rhythm in the Spanish capital after a debut season marred by physical setbacks.

The 18-year-old Argentine international was forced to stop back in November due to a pubic injury, an ailment that saw him sidelined for four crucial matches across La Liga and the Champions League.

While he spent the remainder of the year primarily on the bench, his recent return to the starting lineup under Alvaro Arbeloa suggests that the slow start is firmly in the rearview mirror.

Real Madrid retain in Mastantuono

According to Diario AS, Real Madrid have full faith in Mastantuono. The Spanish giants consider the Argentine a cornerstone of their long-term project, placing him in the same bracket as other strategic young signings like Trent Alexander-Arnold and Carreras.

The board is particularly impressed by his maturity and his willingness to sacrifice individual flair for the benefit of the team.

Mastantuono will play a key role for Real Madrid vs Valencia. (Photo by Jose Manuel Alvarez Rey/Getty Images)

Although his natural position is that of a central playmaker, he has been primarily utilised on the right wing, where his tireless work rate and defensive intensity have become hallmarks of his play.

Arbeloa has prioritised his involvement and is highly satisfied with the physical power and commitment the teenager brings to every match.

A great chance vs Valencia

The upcoming trip to Valencia represents a major turning point for Mastantuono. Due to the absence of key stars including Vinicius Jr., Jude Bellingham, and Rodrygo, the youngster will be tasked with assuming significantly more responsibility in the attack.

It is a poetic setting for a breakout performance, as Valencia is the city where he netted his first La Liga goal during a win over Levante last September.

With the manager’s full support and a clear path to the starting eleven, the long-haul signing is now ready to show why the club invested so heavily in his future.