Radio Gol
·23 agosto 2025
Xabi Alonso praises Mastantuono, hints at start vs Oviedo

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·23 agosto 2025
The Merengue's coach highlighted the integration of the 18-year-old footballer, amidst rumors that he could be in the starting lineup against Oviedo this Sunday. "I see him in the last line or as a playmaker," he stated regarding the position he will play.
Xabi Alonso once again praised Franco Mastantuono in the run-up to the match against Oviedo, which Real Madrid will play this Sunday at 4:30 pm as a visitor. "It seems like you've been here longer than you actually have," he said at the press conference the day before each match.
The coach did not reveal whether the former River player will be in the starting lineup, after having made his debut on Tuesday against Osasuna (he came off the bench 22 minutes into the second half), but he highlighted that "he has a very good integration with his teammates". In addition, about the controversy that arose over his name, he added: "I see him with a smile more than a concern".
Regarding the position in which he plans to play Mastantuono, the Merengue's coach was emphatic. "In the last line or as a playmaker. At River he was often a 10 or a half forward, and he adjusted as a winger. He has quality for both, mobility and the ability to associate with those around him. He doesn't just make his individual play", he stated.
The main Spanish media indicated that the 18-year-old footballer has a high chance of being in the starting lineup against Oviedo. Beyond the good impression left in his presentation -and what he shows in each training- the information is also justified by the downturn of Rodrygo and Brahim.
This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇪🇸 here.