Argentina Legend Raves About Real Madrid's Rising Star: "This Kid Has Incredible Potential"

More than ten years have elapsed since a player from Argentina stepped onto the field in Real Madrid's colors, a drought that will soon conclude when 18-year-old sensation Franco Mastantuono makes his bow for Los Blancos.

The 2014 Champions League final, where Real Madrid claimed their long-awaited La Decima, marked the most recent occasion when an Argentina-born player appeared for Los Blancos in competitive action. That individual was Ángel Di Maria, who earned man of the match honors as he helped Madrid secure continental triumph.

Jump ahead 11 years and Mastantuono will aim to emulate El Fideo's path when he joins Los Blancos. Speaking with Argentine publication La Nacion, Di Maria shared his thoughts about his 18-year-old compatriot ahead of his Real Madrid bow.

"Hopefully he performs exceptionally well," Di Maria commented. "It would be wonderful for another Argentine to represent us proudly, to capture titles and keep developing. He possesses remarkable talent to achieve this."

Mastantuono established himself as a prominent figure in Argentina through his outstanding displays for South American powerhouse River Plate. A move to Europe this summer was inevitable and, despite interest from multiple major European sides, Real Madrid activated his €45 million ($52.1 million) buyout clause to complete his acquisition.

"I wish him tremendous success," Di Maria continued. "The city is magnificent and he'll settle in without difficulty. Representing Real Madrid is extraordinary and he should maximize this opportunity."

This marks Real Madrid's first acquisition of an Argentine player since Di Maria arrived from Benfica in 2010. The 2022 World Cup winner went on to feature in 190 matches across four campaigns with Los Blancos, netting 36 times, providing 85 assists and claiming every trophy available.

Argentina international Nico Paz made his senior debut for Los Blancos in 2023, though he came through the youth system and was born in Tenerife, Spain.

While the former River Plate talent was formally presented recently, there's strong possibility he'll make his Real Madrid debut in Los Blancos's campaign opener against Osasuna.

Mastantuono will strive to match Di Maria's achievements with football's most prestigious club and, perhaps, the legacy of another River Plate and Real Madrid icon: Alfredo Di Stéfano.