Mastantuono opens up: 'My first six months weren't my best, not even close'
Real Madrid's young Argentine star Franco Mastantuono reflects on his challenging start at the club, his goal against Monaco, and defends teammate Bellingham.
The Argentine youngster showed maturity beyond his 18 years as he faced the press after Madrid’s Champions League victory against Monaco, addressing his adaptation challenges with refreshing honesty.
Honest self-assessment
Mastantuono has been brutally frank about his initial months at the Bernabéu, acknowledging he hasn’t hit the heights expected of him yet.
“I haven’t had my best first six months, not even close to what I can do,” the teenager admitted, showing remarkable self-awareness for a player still finding his feet in European football.
Despite the challenges, the Argentine isn’t feeling sorry for himself. He’s been putting in the hard yards behind the scenes, leaning on teammates and his support network during the difficult periods.
“I work a lot and rely on my teammates and the people around me. I have a lovely inner circle that takes care of me,” he explained, showing a proper understanding that football’s a proper game of ups and downs.
Bellingham defence shows squad unity
One of the most telling moments came when Mastantuono leapt to Jude Bellingham’s defence after the Englishman’s celebration against Monaco raised eyebrows.
Mastantuono painted a picture of Bellingham as the consummate professional, revealing the midfielder’s intense work ethic at Valdebebas training ground. He described his teammate as someone with “a massive heart” who “lives and breathes Real Madrid.”
“It’s horrible when they attack your ego because he works so bloody hard,” the Argentine stated, clearly frustrated by criticism aimed at his colleague.
Dealing with pressure
The youngster has been dealing with comparisons and scrutiny since he was a nipper. He’s been likened to Messi on one hand and labeled Madrid’s worst signing on the other – talk about chalk and cheese!
With wisdom beyond his years, Mastantuono explained: “I don’t believe I’m Messi and I never will be, but I also don’t believe I’m Madrid’s worst signing.”
His goal against Monaco – with his weaker right foot, no less – has given him a much-needed confidence boost as he looks to kick on in the second half of the season.
“There are six months left which I believe are the most decisive, and I’m going for it to show my best version,” he promised, with determination that’ll have Madridistas hoping the best is yet to come from their South American prospect.