Meet Franco Mastantuono — Real Madrid's latest Argentine wonderkid target from River Plate

On Friday, Franco Mastantuono made history when he became the youngest player to debut for Argentina's men's senior football team in a competitive match. He achieved this milestone by coming off the bench during La Albiceleste's 1-0 victory over Chile in a FIFA 2026 World Cup qualifier.
At 17 years and 295 days old, he made history for the three-time world champions when he was substituted in for Giuliano Simeone in the second half at Estadio Nacional de Chile in Santiago.
Meanwhile, the overall youngest player to ever feature for Argentina in any match, including friendlies, remains Diego Maradona, who made his debut at just 16 years three months and 28 days against Hungary in February 27, 1977.
The teenager is reportedly joining Spanish giants Real Madrid from River Plate for an initial fee of about $45 million.
FILE PHOTO: River Plate's Franco Mastantuono is widely regarded by the local media as the latest prodigy to emerge from Argentine football. | Photo Credit: Reuters
The young forward made his debut for River in January 2024 and is widely regarded by the local media as the latest prodigy to emerge from Argentine football.
A talented left-footed finisher, he established himself as a starter under coach Marcelo Gallardo and soon became a key part of the Buenos Aires-based team.
Earlier, Mastantuono had been linked to other big European clubs such as Manchester United and Paris St Germain after attracting attention with a stunning free kick in River Plate's Superclasico win over Boca Juniors in April.
Born in Argentina, Mastantuono is of Italian descent and holds dual Argentine-Italian citizenship. He was first called up to the Argentina national under-17 team squad by manager Pablo Aimar while still only 15.
The youngster was described by River Plate youth coach Martín Pellegrino as a being capable of playing as an enganche, a play-making midfielder or a forward, noting his ball-striking ability.

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