Overview
- Real Madrid signed Franco Mastantuono from River Plate for about €60 million and gave him early first-team chances in his first season.
- His debut campaign stalled after a stoppage-time red card that led to a two-match suspension and he missed selection for Argentina's World Cup squad, which dented his confidence.
- The club had discussed a dry loan this summer to speed his adaptation to European football, but that plan has been shelved following positive impressions in training.
- Mourinho was reported Friday to be impressed by Mastantuono's technical and physical levels in pre-season and has instructed staff to manage his integration carefully so he can compete for minutes.
- Real Madrid still retain the option to loan him later and have noted interest from clubs in Spain, England and Italy, so playing time and a possible temporary move will be the key signals to watch this season.