Real Madrid's Summer Stars Fire Back After Being Branded a 'Disaster'
Real Madrid's winger Franco Mastantuono has acknowledged that his performances have fallen far short of his potential since arriving in the Spanish capital, mirroring the self-reflection of fellow summer acquisition Dean Huijsen following his own dramatic dip in form.
Following their failure to secure any silverware in 2024–25, Los Blancos looked to strengthen through transfers, bringing in Trent Alexander-Arnold, Álvaro Carreras, Mastantuono and Huijsen during the summer window. Among these four additions, only Carreras has managed to establish himself as a regular starter in the team's lineup.
Mastantuono displayed promising moments early in the campaign, but a groin problem sidelined him alongside long-term absentee Alexander-Arnold. The young Argentine was out for almost four weeks and found his playing time reduced by Rodrygo's presence when he returned—before earning a start in Álvaro Arbeloa's inaugural Champions League match as manager.
Real Madrid demolished Monaco 6-0 at the Santiago Bernabéu, with Mastantuono contributing one of those strikes. The youngster delivered his finest performance since completing his €45 million ($52.7 million) move from River Plate, prompting him to assess his initial half-season wearing the famous white jersey.
"I believe for someone who arrives at 18 years old and features in so many matches, that's actually quite significant," Mastantuono commented.
"My initial six months weren't my finest, nowhere near what I can achieve, but every experience teaches you something. The remaining six months are what I consider most important, and I'll concentrate on demonstrating my true ability.
"From childhood, I've experienced both the blessing and curse of being in the spotlight. People might label me as the next Messi... or they might call me a catastrophe and Madrid's worst ever purchase. I know I'm not Messi and never will be, but I also reject the notion that I'm Madrid's poorest signing.
"I put in the effort to stay fit and become the finest version of myself possible. Harsh criticism stings, but we compete at football's highest level and that comes with the territory."
Huijsen Eager to Move on From 'Tough' Decline in Form
Huijsen Eager to Move on From 'Tough' Decline in Form
Similar to Mastantuono, Huijsen has faced considerable scrutiny. The 20-year-old has battled muscle problems throughout the past three months, affecting his on-field displays. Before Tuesday's Monaco thrashing, Huijsen was substituted during his first three matches of the year following anxious moments and questionable defensive choices.
He responded with a comprehensive performance in the Champions League, indicating what supporters can anticipate going forward, according to Huijsen's assessment.
"I've suffered several injuries recently and I finally feel physically ready," he shared with Movistar+ following the match. "I've been competing while hurt for two or three months, unable to run at full speed. I'm delighted to feel healthy because my recent performances weren't representative of my standards.
"Being injured is never pleasant and it's challenging. I'd never dealt with injuries before, so it was unfamiliar territory. Now we'll progress from here," he continued.
Huijsen transferred to Real Madrid for a club-record £50 million ($67.2 million) before the 2025–26 campaign, making him the most costly defender in the organization's history. Arbeloa will require the former Bournemouth star to sustain his recovered form to help cover for the sidelined Éder Militão and Antonio Rüdiger.