The young talent spoke about his imminent departure, the key conversation with Xabi Alonso, and his desire to leave as a champion with River before joining Los Merengues
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One day before the decisive match between River and Inter Milan for a spot in the round of 16 of the Club World Cup, Franco Mastantuono broke his silence and spoke for the first time about his imminent move to Real Madrid, a club he will join in August. In an exclusive interview with DAZN, he reflected on his present at the Núñez club and his future in Europe, but above all, he made clear his love for the jersey he currently defends.
"I'm playing this tournament at River and my mind is focused on where I am now. I have things clear. I enjoy being at River today and I dream of winning the tournament," said the 17-year-old, who has been a standout for the team in his first two matches.
"I know that after this I'll have to change my life to go somewhere else, to play for a team that doesn't need to be named because we already know what it is," he added.
Mastantuono deberá adaptarse a un ambiente completamente nuevo
With humility and maturity, Mastantuono acknowledged that he is experiencing a unique moment: "It has always been a dream. Everything changes, a new chapter begins in another country. Any player dreams of playing for River and Real Madrid. It's happening to me and I'm grateful."
He also revealed that the conversation with Xabi Alonso was key to accepting the offer from the Spanish club: "The way he treated me was unbelievable. Having the coach want you is a huge vote of confidence for someone who is leaving a club like River, which isn't easy."
Xabi fue un factor clave para la llegada de Mastantuono al Real Madrid
Although the end of his time with the Millonario is approaching, the playmaker made it clear that his commitment to River remains intact: "I always play with the same professionalism. I know I don't have many matches left, but I do it with the same drive and the same passion. I have a deep love for the club and I'll always give everything for these colors."
He concluded with emotion: "They gave me everything since I was a child. River means a lot in my life. I'm a fan, my whole family is passionate about the club and I've always dreamed of wearing this jersey."
Mastantuono siempre soño jugar con ambas camisetas
How many matches does Mastantuono have left at River?
After his participation in the Club World Cup, which could be extended if they advance past the group stage, he is expected to play the first five rounds of the 2025 Torneo Clausura before joining Real Madrid. The matches he would play in the domestic tournament:
Platense (H)
Instituto (A)
San Lorenzo (H)
Independiente (A)
Godoy Cruz (H)
Meanwhile, although the Millonario has a Copa Libertadores match before his departure on the 30th (the first leg of the round of 16 vs. Libertad away), the young player is not expected to play.
