Real Madrid have rejected approaches from several European clubs for Franco Mastantuono, choosing to keep the Argentine attacker in the squad. Napoli were among the teams to explore a loan move that would have run until the end of the season, but Real Madrid decided against it and shut down the idea.
The club’s stance is clear: despite the interest, they still see Mastantuono as a player with long-term value and believe he can contribute during the second half of the campaign, rather than continuing his development elsewhere.
Why Mastantuono’s role has reduced
Mastantuono hasn’t had a major role since returning from pubalgia, an issue that kept him out for more than a month. Before the setback, he had managed to establish himself with more consistent involvement, but the situation changed after his recovery.
Competition has also intensified. With Rodrygo available and Fede Valverde being trusted in advanced and flexible roles, Mastantuono has found himself further down the pecking order. In addition, tactical adjustments under Xabi Alonso — including system changes following Jude Bellingham’s return from shoulder surgery — have altered the team’s structure, making it harder for him to immediately regain his earlier momentum.
What to watch in the second half of the season
Real Madrid’s decision to keep him suggests they expect more minutes to open up as the season progresses, especially with rotation needs across multiple competitions. Mastantuono’s next step is simple: take advantage of any opportunities, rebuild rhythm, and prove he can still be a difference-maker when called upon.
For now, the message from the club is firm: Mastantuono stays, and Real Madrid want his growth to happen inside the squad.