Real Madrid's New Star Mysteriously Competes for Rival Squad in Club World Cup

Franco Mastantuono has officially signed with Real Madrid, though the young Argentine talent will continue to represent River Plate during this summer's FIFA Club World Cup.

While Real Madrid made no acquisitions during the winter transfer window, they've been quite active this summer with significant investments. The club secured not only Trent Alexander-Arnold and Dean Huijsen, but also completed a landmark deal for the 17-year-old Mastantuono.

The Spanish powerhouse set a new Argentine transfer record by investing $72.6 million to bring the emerging star to Madrid. However, the agreement doesn't include Mastantuono joining Real Madrid for their United States tour this summer.

According to MARCA, the Spanish giants preferred not to accelerate the timeline with River Plate, instead allowing Mastantuono to play for his current club at the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup. River Plate has potential for a surprising tournament run, and they'll need their star player's contributions to achieve this.

Reports suggest there were also considerations regarding Mastantuono's age, as he won't turn 18 until August 14. Real Madrid has therefore decided to wait until he reaches adulthood before officially welcoming him to what many consider the world's premier football club.

In the interim, both Real Madrid and River Plate will vie for a share of the unprecedented $1 billion prize pool in the expanded FIFA Club World Cup. With their recent signings and new manager Xabi Alonso, Los Blancos are among the tournament favorites.

River Plate, meanwhile, has favorable prospects to advance from Group E, which includes Inter Milan, Urawa Red Diamonds, and Monterrey. Real Madrid supporters can watch their future star Mastantuono in action when River Plate begins their tournament campaign against Urawa Red Diamonds on Tuesday, June 17.