A strategy that raises suspicions

Real Madrid will register Franco Mastantuono with Castilla rather than the first team, leaving a spot open in the main squad for potential signings before the transfer window closes. This approach was previously used with Vinicius and Rodrygo, who both actually played with the reserve side. However, in the Argentine’s case, it appears he will be used exclusively by the first team, which has sparked criticism.

Miguel Galán, president of CENAFE Escuelas, stated on his 'X' account that this registration could “constitute a fraud of law” if the player, despite holding a reserve team registration, plays exclusively for Carlo Ancelotti’s side.

What the regulations say

Galán recalled that Article 125 of the RFEF General Regulations prohibits the use of a reserve team relationship to circumvent the spirit of regulatory provisions. “Any agreement that contravenes this spirit will be considered null and void,” he noted.

He also cited Article 250, which governs the participation of reserve players in the first team, warning that, if breached, the club could face sanctions for improper lineup as set out in Article 248 of the same regulations.

Calculated risk or avoidable mistake?

Real Madrid is reportedly pursuing this maneuver to maintain flexibility in the market until September 2, the closing date of the transfer window. However, according to Galán, the transfer fee and contract terms clearly make the Argentine a first-team player, so registering him with the reserves would go against the spirit of the rules.

If the club fields him in an official match while registered with Castilla, it could face both sporting and administrative sanctions. The debate is now open, and the ball is in the RFEF’s court to determine whether Real Madrid’s strategy is legitimate or an unnecessary risk.