Real Madrid prioritise restoring summer arrival to full fitness after recent decline | OneFootball

2025 has taken a difficult turn for Franco Mastantuono in the past few months. The 18-year-old enjoyed a brilliant year, establishing himself at River Plate, breaking into the Argentine national team, and then earning a big-money summer move to Real Madrid.

Such was Real Madrid’s confidence in the 18-year-old versatile attacking midfielder that they spent €63.5 million on his signing (add-ons included), making him the most expensive sale in the history of River Plate.

Shortly after his arrival, Mastantuono quickly became almost an automatic starter on the right flank for Xabi Alonso. However, in recent months, the teenage prodigy has been reduced to a fringe substitute, thanks to fitness problems and a dip in form.

Recovering Mastantuono to full fitness immediate priority for Real Madrid

Now, according to AS, getting Mastantuono back to full fitness is a priority in Real Madrid’s immediate plans.

Faith in the talented Argentine has not diminished, confidence in his talent and abilities remains fully intact.

No first season for a young player at Real Madrid in recent history has been straightforward, as shown by the cases of Vinicius Jr., Arda Guler and Endrick, and for that reason the investment is viewed as a long-term one. That has not changed.

Going through a difficult period. (Photo by Florencia Tan Jun/Getty Images)

Mastantuono has struggled with pubalgia problems for a while now and even though he recovered, the feeling is that he is still not at peak fitness and that is the aim for Real Madrid – to help him recover his 100%.

At the same time, the responsibility lies with the Argentine himself to show once again the spark and energy he brought upon his arrival.

Apart from his performance levels taking a nosedive, there have been a few moments when his attitude has come into question – arguing with David Alaba over a free-kick, angry reaction to being substituted vs Espanyol being a couple of examples.

Rodrygo has once again reclaimed the right wing, while Arda Guler and Brahim Diaz lurk. With Real Madrid planning to re-sign Nico Paz next summer, things will only get more competitive for Mastantuono.

So, the youngster will need to put his head down and work hard, with the club’s help, to recover his best version after a difficult period.