The former River player signed for six seasons and moved everyone with a spontaneous speech that surprised the press and management
President Florentino Pérez welcomed him by highlighting his talent and recalling the historic connection between River and Real Madrid through Alfredo Di Stéfano. "One of the greatest talents in world football is arriving. Today your great dream comes true on your birthday," he said, and emphasized that with Mastantuono they hope to continue expanding the club's trophy collection.
Real Madrid presented Franco Mastantuono this Thursday as the club's new player, at an event that coincided with his 18th birthday.
Two months after his signing was confirmed, the Argentine midfielder completed his medical exams, signed a six-season contract, and posed for the first time in the Merengue jersey (which will finally have the number 30), accompanied by the Champions League trophies and his family.
In his first speech as a Madridist player, the former River spoke without notes and with confidence, something highlighted by the Spanish press: "Today a dream comes true for me. I'm joining the biggest club in the world, and it will be a day remembered in my history. I thank my family and I want them to enjoy this moment as I am." He also promised "to give everything for this jersey" and assured that on the field "there will be a fan."
The Argentine gem, who has already been drafted to the Senior National Team, will join training with the goal of making his official debut next August 19 against Osasuna at Santiago Bernabéu, at the start of La Liga.
Real Madrid's president took his time to highlight the Millonario. "I want to make a special mention of River Plate, a centenary, legendary club and one of the most decorated in Argentina and in America," he commented.
He also spoke about the ties between both clubs: "This club, where you've grown and developed, has a historic and sentimental connection with Real Madrid because of the many players we've shared…"
