Argentina international Franco Mastantuono joined Fiorentina on loan for the 2026/27 season after Real Madrid decided regular minutes were necessary following his €45m transfer from River Plate in 2025. The teenager chose Florence over European-competing suitors, guided by manager Fabio Grosso and advice from José Mourinho.
Franco Mastantuono’s arrival in European football has taken a temporary detour to Serie A. Real Madrid caused a stir when they paid 45 million euros to prise him from River Plate in 2025, but regular playing time at the Santiago Bernabeu proved difficult to secure as competition for places intensified.
While the 19-year-old midfielder made 35 appearances across his initial stint in Madrid—benefiting from early opportunities under former manager Xabi Alonso—both the club and the player recognized that consistent minutes were essential for his development. Rather than keeping the teenager on the fringes of a crowded squad, Real Madrid opted to send him out on loan, with several alternative clubs registering interest before Fiorentina won the race for his signature.
Why Mastantuono Chose Fiorentina Over European Suitors
Unlike other interested parties, Fiorentina are not participating in European competition this season. However, Mastantuono made it clear that continental football played no part in his calculations, prioritizing long-term development and a clear project instead.
Photo: LiveScore
“European participation was not decisive in my decision, rather I gave priority to ambitions and opportunities. Fiorentina focuses on youth and quality, and that is why it is the best place to express my style of football.”
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Franco Mastantuono, Fiorentina midfielder, via Goal
The decision was heavily influenced by the club’s leadership and technical staff. Mastantuono pointed directly to the manager as a primary reason for his move, noting that as soon as Fabio Grosso called, he understood the project was ideal. Current Real Madrid coach José Mourinho also played an active role behind the scenes, discussing the move with the player before the transfer was finalized.
“He is a great coach and possesses enormous energy. I had not yet chosen Florence when we spoke, but he gave me advice, and it was agreed with him and with Real Madrid that going out on loan to play regularly was the best option.”
Franco Mastantuono, Fiorentina midfielder, via Goal
Following Argentine Footsteps in Serie A
Serie A holds a rich history for Argentine internationals, a factor that attracted the teenager to the Italian league alongside the prestige of the club. Upon arriving in Florence, the club’s Centenary celebrations allowed him to meet club legend and fellow countryman Gabriel Batistuta immediately.
While Mastantuono admires modern stars like Paulo Dybala—with whom he plays Padel—and regards Lionel Messi as the best in the sport, he remains grounded about comparisons.
“Lionel Messi is the best, and I had the honour of playing alongside him, but it is also sad that he retired from international football. I admire Ángel Di María and Paulo Dybala, especially as Dybala plays in the same position as me, but it is absurd to compare myself to players who have achieved exceptional careers.”
Franco Mastantuono, Fiorentina midfielder, via Goal
Lessons Learned at the Santiago Bernabeu
Reflecting on his introduction to European football at Real Madrid, Mastantuono highlighted the teammates who left the strongest impression during his first year in Spain, noting that Kylian Mbappe is phenomenal while Brahim Diaz possesses incredible technique. Among them, England midfielder Jude Bellingham offered significant guidance.
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“Which players impressed me most at Real Madrid? Brahim has incredible technique, Mbappe is phenomenal, and Bellingham is incredibly good and gave me a lot of advice.”
Franco Mastantuono, Fiorentina midfielder, via Yahoo Sports
The temporary departure does not signal an end to his ambitions in the Spanish capital. Mastantuono still views Real Madrid as his ultimate destination and considers staying connected to that environment part of the right career path, utilizing his time in Florence to hone his efficiency in front of goal and secure regular playing time.
