Xabi Alonso is wasting no time. The new Real Madrid boss reportedly has a clear idea of his starting lineup for the 2025/26 La Liga opener — and it includes Franco Mastantuono, the 17-year-old prodigy from River Plate.
The Argentine wonderkid, long targeted by PSG, will instead head to the Bernabéu this summer. Despite River Plate’s attempts to keep him until winter, Mastantuono will join immediately and is expected to start from day one.
Xabi’s first-choice XI
According to Manu Carreño (El Larguero), here’s the lineup envisioned by Alonso:
Courtois – Arnold, Huijsen, Rüdiger, Carreras – Tchouaméni, Valverde, Bellingham, Mastantuono – Vinicius, Mbappé
A few key notes: No Zubimendi, who is heading to Arsenal, Trent Alexander-Arnold locks in the right-back spot. Mastantuono takes a major leap straight into the XI, ahead of seasoned midfielders. Mbappé and Vinicius headline a terrifying attack
A new Argentine era?
Mastantuono’s fast-track role signals Real Madrid’s belief in the teenager’s talent. With Bellingham and Valverde by his side, he’ll form part of a dynamic, youthful midfield built for the future — and the present.
It’s a bold, attacking setup. With the arrival of Alonso, Real are clearly preparing for a new era of energy, youth, and ambition. Brace yourselves: the Bernabéu is about to buzz like never before in recent years at least.
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