Argentine midfielder Franco Mastantuono is on a meteoric rise in the world of professional football, capturing the attention of both Real Madrid and his country’s national team. At 18 years old, Mastantuono already has his sights set on a place in the 2026 World Cup. In an interview, Mastantuono expressed that the possibility of participating in the tournament to be held in the United States, Mexico, and Canada next summer is a dream.
The coach of the Argentinian national team, Lionel Scaloni, has already integrated Mastantuono into the squad, calling him up for the last two qualifying matches for the CONMEBOL World Cup. Mastantuono has participated in three matches with the Albiceleste, and was a starter for the first time in the 1-0 victory against Chile on June 5th. Given Lionel Messi’s absence from the September match against Ecuador, Scaloni assigned Mastantuono the iconic number 10 jersey, a moment the young footballer assures he will never forget.It would be a dream. I am going to work hard to get to the 2026 World Cup. I am taking it step by step. I can play there at 18; it would be an incredible dream. I feel very comfortable with the group. My goal is to reach the World Cup.
Franco Mastantuono
Mastantuono added that every time he sees a photo of himself with that shirt, he gets very emotional. He recounted that when he entered the locker room and saw his name next to Julián Álvarez’s, with the number 9, he thought they were playing a joke on him. It was a unique moment. Mastantuono lived the path of Argentina towards the 2022 World Cup title as a young fan and admirer of Messi.Using the number 10 is incredible. As I always say, wearing Leo’s 10, a number that Maradona also used, is the best. I didn’t expect it; it was something unique.
Franco Mastantuono
At Real Madrid, Mastantuono has established himself as a regular starter, mainly on the right wing. A role he considers different in style and position from the one he plays with the national team.I have the date [of the 2022 World Cup final] tattooed on my body. It’s a way of remembering that Argentine team, but above all the thorny path that Leo had to take to win the title. It was the best thing that could have happened to us. Now having Messi as a teammate is the best. I have always admired him. I always dreamed of playing football; I never thought I could experience all this.
Franco Mastantuono
Mastantuono also pointed out a key tactical difference between his two teams:I like to play on the right wing, or in the center, but I will play wherever it’s necessary, even as a center back.
Franco Mastantuono
During the international break in October, Mastantuono and Argentina will play friendly matches against Venezuela and Puerto Rico.The difference between Real Madrid and Argentina, in terms of play, is clear. In my club, we strive to be more direct, while with the national team, we play more with the ball, with possession.
Franco Mastantuono
