Real Madrid wrapped up a demanding week with two high-profile wins — a dominant display against Juventus in the Champions League and a crucial Clásico victory over Barcelona. However, not every player came out of it stronger. One of the most surprising cases is Franco Mastantuono, who has gone from one of the team’s breakout stars to a secondary role almost overnight.

From Regular Starter to Unexpected Substitute

At just 18 years old, Mastantuono had burst onto the scene with confidence, earning eight consecutive starts and public praise from Xabi Alonso.

“Franco has many good things. He just arrived in a new country and at a massive club, and his adaptation has been excellent. I love his quality, personality, and competitiveness. He brings a lot of energy,” the coach said a few weeks ago.

But in the two most important games of the season so far, his name was nowhere to be seen in the starting XI. Against Juventus, he played only six minutes, and in the Clásico, he didn’t step onto the field at all — missing what would’ve been his first appearance in Spain’s biggest rivalry.

Xabi Alonso Changes the Formula

The sudden drop in minutes seems tied to Alonso’s recent tactical adjustments. Against Juventus, he opted for a more offensive system with three forwards, where Brahim Díaz got the nod ahead of the Argentine youngster. Then in the Clásico, Alonso completely shifted gears — using four midfielders and only two attackers (Kylian Mbappé and Vinícius Jr.) — leaving no natural role for Mastantuono.

Competition within the squad is also fierce. Valverde, Bellingham, and Camavinga continue to rotate in positions that Mastantuono could occupy, and with players like Carvajal and Trent Alexander-Arnold soon returning, opportunities for minutes will become even scarcer.

A Pause in His Development

The Argentine midfielder arrived at Madrid amid huge expectations after a €60 million transfer, scoring his only goal so far against Levante. However, his form has dipped recently: in his last four appearances (against Atlético, Kairat, Villarreal, and Getafe), he’s managed just two shots on target and five successful dribbles.

Still, there’s no panic at the club. Alonso reportedly remains fully confident in the youngster’s talent and views this phase as a natural part of his adaptation process. With Valencia up next, Mastantuono could get a fresh chance to prove himself — and remind everyone why Madrid saw him as one of the most promising prospects of his generation.