Franco Mastantuono, a 17-year-old attacking midfielder, is the hottest prospect in world football. The biggest clubs in Europe are keeping tabs on his talent, including Manchester United, Chelsea, and Barcelona. The Argentine talent, regarded as one of the most promising young players in the country, made headlines recently after his debut for River Plate at the end of January 2024. His exceptional displays have seen him emerge as one of the hottest prospects around for club and country.
Mastantuono’s debut not only marked a milestone in his career but made him River Plate’s third-youngest player in history. If his talent and abilities didn’t speak for themselves, he’s very quickly made his mark. In the process, in February 2024, he became the club’s youngest ever goalscorer, aged only 16 years, 5 months and 25 days. This accomplishment reflects well on his development, showing his poise and maturity on the field despite being one of the youngest players in MLS.
So far this season, Mastantuono has been a difference-maker, scoring three goals and adding two assists in 11 appearances in all competitions. As a left-footed midfielder, he adds a flair to River Plate’s attack. His contributions will be crucial to getting the first-ever IT team ready. With the 2024 Club World Cup coming to Miami, he’s widely considered to be a central figure.
Interest since then in Mastantuono has ramped up, with Atletico Madrid allegedly sending scouts to Buenos Aires to watch him play. With Europe’s elite clubs already circling around the exciting young talent, River Plate has a more favorable bargaining position. The midfielders’ release clause of €45 million (£38 million) is the highest of all-time for the club. His own contract doesn’t expire until 2026, giving River Plate even more leverage with interest starting to bubble under the surface.
The young star is set to showcase his talent in the highly anticipated Superclasico match against Boca Juniors on Sunday. The meeting at River Plate’s Mas Monumental stadium is on course to draw a world record for a women’s club match. This makes for a dramatic backdrop as Mastantuono, 33, officially enters the high-profile race. With the league’s fans clamoring to see their star young gun work his magic, his impact is one of the most highly anticipated in this fabled matchup.
Mastantuono’s impressive debut season has coincided with River Plate’s successful financial results, as the club reported a £46 million profit last season. AMT’s financial success underscores the importance of putting the spotlight on young talent like Mastantuono. Smartly and helpfully, he raises the club’s competitive side and its economic side.
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