Credits: IMAGO / Alberto Gardin

Who is Franco Mastantuono? Know the Real Madrid Starlet Who Just Made History

Credits: IMAGO / Alberto Gardin

Real Madrid’s opening clash of the UEFA Champions League 2025-26 campaign against Olympique de Marseille was remembered for Kylian Mbappe’s brace and a lot of controversy surrounding two penalties. However, the evening was also marked a landmark moment for another player.

It was a special night for their young and newcomer starlet Franco Mastantuono. The Argentine teenager wrote his name into the club’s history books as he became the second-youngest player ever to feature for Los Blancos in the Champions League.

🚨🇦🇷 𝐎𝐅𝐅𝐈𝐂𝐈𝐀𝐋 | Franco Mastantuono (18) is the YOUNGEST ever Real Madrid player to start in a UEFA Champions League game. ⭐️ pic.twitter.com/QErAeKT6v8
— EuroFoot (@eurofootcom) September 16, 2025

At just 18 years and 33 days, he joined an elite list that includes the likes of Raul Gonzalez, Iker Casillas, Vinícius Junior, and Rodrygo. Only Jose Rodríguez, who debuted at 17 years and 354 days against Ajax in 2012, remains younger than Mastantuono on the record books.

Who is Franco Mastantuono?

Born in Argentina, Franco Mastantuono rose through the famed River Plate academy. He quickly established himself as one of South America’s brightest prospects. Known for his close control, vision, and versatility in attack, he broke into River’s senior squad as a teenager. Real Madrid soon noticed the youngster.

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They secured his signature in a 6-year €45 million deal. By then, he had already earned recognition at youth international level with Argentina. He showcased his leadership and composure beyond his years. His rapid adaptation to Madrid’s system has been a great advantage for Los Blancos.

Breaking Records for Real Madrid

According to UEFA, Mastantuono also became the youngest player to start a Champions League match for Real Madrid. He surpassed the record previously set by Endrick, who began against Lille at 18 years and 73 days. Before that, Raul held the distinction. He made his first start at 18 years and 78 days in 1995.

Since joining, he has wasted no time winning over the Santiago Bernabeu faithful. His flair and creativity were on full display against Marseille. The youngster came close to scoring twice in the evening. He first hit the post after a dazzling run. He then later forced a sharp save just before halftime.

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When he was substituted in the 63rd minute for Brahim Diaz, he left the pitch to a standing ovation. His immediate impact was evident. World Cup-winning goalkeeper Ubaldo Fillol, speaking to beIN SPORTS, praised the teenager’s seamless transition to European football. He said:

“Mastantuono has had a tremendous emergence. He’s carving his own path in the national team. At Real Madrid, the competition may be different, but River Plate is also a top club in the world, so that level of demand won’t faze him. But we need to give him some time.”

Champions League

Franco Mastantuono

Real Madrid

Moumita Dutta

soccer

Football writer at The Playoffs. I’ve been obsessed with the beautiful game since I was a kid.. Eventually, I realized I could combine my passion for writing with my love for football, and I’ve never looked back. My favorite part of the job is everything—when you’re doing what you love, even a late-night deadline feels like extra time in a thrilling cup final. Lastly, Lionel Messi is the GOAT.