Real Madrid Loanee Shatters Lionel Messi's Legendary Record in Stunning Achievement

Franco Mastantuono etched his name in the record books as the youngest Argentine to score a hat trick in Europe's top five leagues, powering Fiorentina to a 4–2 victory over Venezia on Friday.

On loan from Real Madrid, Mastantuono struck twice within a 90-second spell around the half-hour mark, then completed his treble just before the final whistle to deliver Fiorentina their first points of the campaign.

Aged just 18 years and 28 days, Mastantuono has surpassed a long-standing record previously held by Lionel Messi, who scored his first Barcelona hat trick against Madrid back in March 2007, making him the youngest Argentine to bag three goals in a single game across Europe's elite five leagues.

In doing so, Mastantuono also claimed the distinction of being the youngest player ever to score a hat trick for Fiorentina.

"It's a true honor for me to write my name into the history of such a storied club," Mastantuono said.

"Getting a result today was crucial, and we put in a brilliant performance. I'm delighted with the victory, beyond just the goals."

The Youngest Argentines to Score a Hat Trick in Europe's Top Five Leagues

Mastantuono Flashes the Promise Needed to Salvage Real Madrid Career

When Real Madrid secured Mastantuono's signature in the summer of 2025, many anticipated he would slot straight into the starting lineup despite his young age. That expectation, however, never materialized.

The teenage midfielder found the step up to Spanish football difficult in his debut season. Of his 35 outings, only 17 were starts, and he managed just three goals throughout the entire campaign—a total he has already equaled in his short time at Fiorentina.

Sensational headlines branded Mastantuono "the worst signing in Real Madrid history." While such a label is harsh and unfair, there is no escaping the fact that the 2025–26 season was a disappointing one for the youngster, whose path to regular Madrid minutes grew even narrower this summer following the arrival of Yan Diomande in the right-wing position where he featured most frequently.

Madrid are not a club known for their patience. The relentless pursuit of success at the Bernabéu means underperformers are quickly moved on, though such a drastic step is unlikely to be taken with Mastantuono given his age.

Much like Endrick's situation in January, Mastantuono has been dispatched on a loan deal with no option for a permanent move. Madrid are eager to see him develop in a competitive European environment and return with the self-belief required to make a real impact at the second attempt.

Displays like this one—decisive, high-quality contributions—are precisely what Mastantuono must produce consistently if he hopes to convince Madrid boss José Mourinho and president Florentino Pérez, both of whom will be monitoring his progress with keen interest.