Kempes urges Mastantuono to channel Lamine Yamal's fearlessness at Madrid
Argentine legend Mario Kempes believes Franco Mastantuono needs to show more courage at Real Madrid, drawing parallels with Barcelona's teenage sensation Lamine Yamal.
Argentine football legend Mario Kempes has laid down the gauntlet to his young compatriot Franco Mastantuono, urging the Real Madrid youngster to show more bottle if he wants to succeed at the Bernabéu.
Pressure cooker environment
Mastantuono’s talent has never been in question, but adapting to life at the European giants is proving a different kettle of fish compared to his time at River Plate. The Argentine teenager is finding that Madrid demands immediate impact, regardless of your age or adjustment period.
Kempes, known as ‘El Matador’ during his illustrious career, didn’t mince his words when discussing Mastantuono’s situation:
“It’s not River or Boca, it’s Real Madrid,” Kempes pointed out, highlighting the step up in expectations the youngster faces.
The Yamal blueprint
Interestingly, Kempes believes Mastantuono should look across the El Clásico divide for inspiration, specifically to Barcelona’s teenage sensation Lamine Yamal.
According to the 1978 World Cup hero, Mastantuono needs to:
- Take more risks on the ball
- Shoot from distance
- Show more courage in possession
- Demand the ball even after losing it
Kempes recognizes that Yamal sometimes loses possession but crucially “asks for it again, takes players on and plays” – exactly the mentality he believes his young countryman must adopt.
Madrid’s patience running thin?
The Argentine legend’s comments hint at a wider truth about Madrid’s culture – they’re not known for their patience with developing talent. Having spotted something special in Mastantuono at River, they’re now waiting to see that same spark in the famous white shirt.
“If he doesn’t use that ability, he won’t last long,” warned Kempes, suggesting the youngster might need to “sacrifice more than other stars” to make his mark.
For all his obvious talent and mature mindset, Kempes delivered a stark reminder that at the Bernabéu, it’s not enough to be technically gifted – “you have to show it on the pitch.”