Three people associated with Atlético de Madrid appear in a photo montage, one of them wearing a blue jacket and the other two in soccer uniforms, one in red and white stripes and the other in a white uniform. — Cholo and Araña praised the young Millonarios player | La Derecha Diario

Camara — Cholo and Araña praised the young Millonarios player | La Derecha Diario

Cholo Simeone and Julián Álvarez praised Franco Mastantuono

Atlético Madrid's coach highlighted the young player's growth and wished him success upon his arrival at Merengue. Meanwhile, the former Millonario striker wished him all the best

19/06/2025 14:36:00h

Editorial Team

Diego Simeonedid not hesitate to highlight the talent of Franco Mastantuono, the young player from River who was acquired by Real Madrid for an amount close to 63 million euros. Meanwhile, he referred to the excellent work done by the Millonario with its youth divisions.

In a press conference, the Atlético de Madrid coach stated: "He is a boy who is growing very quickly" and wished him the best in this new stage. "I hope this is a great step for the boy, which is extremely important for his career, joining Real Madrid. I wish him the best," said Cholo, even though Mastantuono's destination is his club's main rival.

Atlético de Madrid coach speaking at a press conference in Seattle with a ball and water bottles on the table and a backdrop with sponsor logos.

Cholo highlighted the growth that Mastantuono is experiencing | La Derecha Diario

Simeone also praised River's youth academy, the club where his own sons were developed. "It has been one of the best teams, possibly in the world, at producing important and representative footballers at a global level," said the rojiblanco coach, acknowledging the prestige of the Núñez institution in talent development.

Julián Álvarez, another gem who emerged from River and is now a star for Colchonero, also spoke about the young forward. "An unbelievable kid. I met him the other day, he has impressive qualities and a lot ahead of him," said the world champion when asked about Mastantuono.

Three players in beige training uniforms walk and talk outdoors.

Enzo, Julián and Mastantuono during the national team's training session | La Derecha Diario

Julián also mentioned that he closely followed the Millonario's debut in the Club World Cup against Urawa Red Diamonds, in which Mastantuono was a starter. "Victory, they started well, I wish them the best for what is next," he added.

Mastantuono will officially leave River once his participation in the international tournament ends, and he will join Real Madrid after turning 18, in what is projected to be one of the most significant transfers of an Argentine youth player in recent years.

What is next for Atlético Madrid in Group B?

Cholo's team will face Seattle Sounders this Thursday starting at 19:00. Colchonero will seek to recover from the thrashing it suffered in the first matchday against PSG, the brand-new Champions League winner and the main favorite to win the tournament, against a direct rival for second place in the group.

Badges of the teams Atlético de Madrid and Seattle Sounders on blue and green backgrounds, respectively

Atleti plays against local Seattle Sounders | La Derecha Diario

Later, in the last match of the group, the Spanish team will play against Botafogo, current Libertadores champion, on Monday, June 23 starting at 16:00.

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