The transfer of Franco Mastantuono to Real Madrid has sparked controversy not only in Spain but also in Argentina. While the move was seen as a success for River Plate, the club that brought him into the spotlight, another team is demanding its share: River Plate Azuleño, the modest club where the young star began his football journey. From the province of Buenos Aires, they have initiated legal action to claim the training compensation they believe is owed.

In an official statement shared on social media, River Plate Azuleño stated that they have not received "any amount of money" since Mastantuono signed his first professional contract with River or since his transfer to Real Madrid was finalized. Although the Spanish giants are not directly involved in the dispute—as they paid the full release clause and all associated fees—this situation has reignited the conversation around fair compensation for youth development in South American football.

Madrid Focused on the Pitch: Key Clash vs. Dortmund

Meanwhile, on the pitch, Real Madrid under Xabi Alonso is preparing to face Borussia Dortmund this Saturday in the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup quarterfinals, scheduled for 4:00 p.m. ET at the MetLife Stadium in New Jersey. The Spanish club arrives with strong momentum after a solid group stage, bolstered by the emergence of academy product Gonzalo, who has already scored three goals in the tournament.

Coach Alonso has implemented a 5-3-2 formation that is beginning to deliver results, particularly in defense, with Tchouaméni, Rüdiger, and Huijsen forming a reliable back line. However, a big question looms over the attack: will Alonso bring back Kylian Mbappé to the starting eleven, or will he continue to trust Gonzalo as his striker?

Dortmund Seeks Revenge for Champions League Final

Borussia Dortmund, on the other hand, comes into this clash eager for revenge after losing to Madrid in the 2024 Champions League Final. Led by Niko Kovač, the German side advanced narrowly past teams like Monterrey and Mamelodi Sundowns, and will look to Serhou Guirassy, who has already netted three goals in the tournament, to lead their attack.

With the match falling on Independence Day in the United States, the atmosphere is expected to be electric. Between the legal conflict in Argentina and the high-stakes match in New Jersey, Saturday promises to be dramatic both on and off the field.