“Messi Regen” “Better than Yamal” - Fans in awe as reported Real Madrid target scores stunning free kick
Real Madrid target Franco Mastantuono has fans talking after he scored a stunning goal to lead River Plate to a 1-0 win over Sarmiento on July 28. The Argentine teenager is one of the most highly-rated in the country and has been tipped to have a big future.
River Plate were in the news before the game as it emerged that former Manchester City star Martin Demichelis would leave his post as manager. For his final game in charge against Sarmiento, Demichelis named 16-year-old Franco Mastantuono in the lineup from the start. The talented youngster delivered a timely reminder why the manager believes so much in him, proving to be the match winner.
River Plate were awarded a free-kick in the 86th minute and the teenager stepped up and whipped home an effort that is sure to have sent a message to Europe. He has long been courted by Real Madrid and the likes of Manchester United and Chelsea, and his goal got fans talking.
"Messi Regen," a fan commented.
"Better than Yamal," another wrote.
A fan pointed out that Real Madrid are looking to sign the youngster.
"That’s who Real Madrid is signing apparently!" they wrote.
Another fan expressed disbelief at his age.
"Unbelievable he is 16," the fan commented.
Yet another fan took the opportunity to link him with Los Blancos.
"Future Real Madrid player," they chimed in.
A fan expressed their shock at the goal he scored
"Holy moly, that's brilliant," they tweeted.
Mastantuono has contributed three goals and an assist in 21 appearances for River Plate this season. The teenager is a serious target for the European champions, who have held talks with the Argentine giants over his signing.
Despite being only 16, the Argentinian will be permitted to move to Europe immediately, seeing as he holds Italian citizenship as well. Los Blancos will look to add him to their talented squad after completing the signings of Kylian Mbappe and Endrick this summer.
Real Madrid set to hand new contracts to full-back duo - Reports
Real Madrid are looking to extend the contracts of defenders Dani Carvajal and Ferland Mendy ahead of the 2024-25 season. Los Blancos are keen to keep some of their experienced heads after winning the UEFA Champions League last season.
Diario AS reports that Carlo Ancelotti considers both defenders to be among the best in the world in their position. The Italian manager has pushed for both players to receive extensions as their contracts are due to expire in 2025.
The Spanish giants have already seen Toni Kroos retire and Nacho Fernandez leave the club. Meanwhile, the veteran duo of Luka Modric and Lucaz Vazquez have signed one-year extensions, and will continue to provide leadership.
Ancelotti's side are in the USA for their pre-season tour, where they have a number of high-profile friendlies lined up. They will be keen to extend their dominance of European football in the 2024-25 season.