'He probably plays PlayStation with Real Madrid' - New Los Blancos signing Franco Mastantuono labelled 'very green' after completing Bernabeu switch

Argentinian journalist Hernan Pereyra has criticised Mastantuono's transfer to Real Madrid, claiming the teenager is "very green" and rushed his move to Europe. According to a report from Football Espana, Pereyra voiced his concerns on Spanish radio, suggesting Mastantuono’s decision was influenced by playing video games. Mastantuono recently completed his transfer from River Plate after turning 18 on August 14, following a blockbuster move agreed earlier in the summer.

The move for Mastantuono, which included a €43 million (£37m/$50m) fee, has been met with high expectations from Real Madrid fans. He remained at River Plate for the FIFA Club World Cup before his official switch to the Bernabeu after a transfer war between the Spanish club and PSG. Mastantuono's arrival comes at a time of key midfield injuries for Los Blancos, with Jude Bellingham and Eduardo Camavinga sidelined. This could open an immediate path for the young Argentine to be involved in the first team under manager Xabi Alonso.

Mastantuono became River Plate's youngest-ever goalscorer when he found the net in a Copa Argentina match in February 2024, at just 16 years old. He also scored a memorable free-kick against arch-rivals Boca Juniors.

Hernan Pereyra told Cadena SER: "He rushed his departure, he wasn’t ready, he’s still very green. He scored a great goal against Boca Juniors from a free-kick and suddenly he’s worth $50m. There’s no sense of identity among these young players anymore. He probably plays PlayStation with Real Madrid and fell in love with the team. I hope he has a great career, but don’t let his feelings betray him, as he loves Real Madrid."

Mastantuono has joined up with Alonso's first-team and is expected to be included in the matchday squad for Real Madrid's opening La Liga fixture at home against Osasuna on August 19. With Bellingham and Camavinga unavailable, and other midfielders like Fede Valverde, Aurelien Tchouameni, and Dani Ceballos likely to start, Mastantuono is a strong candidate for a place on the bench and a potential quick-fire debut.