Real Madrid summer signing fighting to save his season as World Cup dream hangs in balance

According to a report from AS, it has come to light that Franco Mastantuono has chosen not to push for a move away from Real Madrid, despite his limited involvement in recent months. 

Instead, Mastantuono is gambling on turning his situation around at the Santiago Bernabeu.

The timing of that decision is crucial. This is because, as 2026 begins, Mastantuono knows he must significantly increase his playing time if he wants to secure a place in the 2026 FIFA World Cup with Argentina. 

Competition for spots in the reigning world champions’ squad is fierce, and minutes at the club level will be decisive.

A strong start to new life

Mastantuono’s start in Madrid initially suggested a very different trajectory. 

Arriving at just 18, he adapted quickly to Xabi Alonso’s system and accumulated meaningful minutes early on. 

That momentum, however, was halted by a pubalgia injury. Since recovering, Mastantuono has struggled to regain his place. 

Franco Mastantuono is hoping for a turnaround. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)

He has not started a match in La Liga or the Champions League since November 1 and has appeared in only two of the last 11 games, logging just 67 minutes. 

The challenge is made even tougher by comparisons closer to home, as former La Fábrica talent Nico Paz is thriving at Como. 

Nico has already surpassed 1,400 minutes this season, contributing five goals and five assists. 

While expectations remain realistic, Mastantuono is fully aware that breaking into Argentina’s starting XI is unlikely. 

Still, he wants to be part of the World Cup squad and ideally feature in major fixtures.

For that to happen, though, everything depends on one factor: earning more trust and minutes under Alonso. 

Mastantuono is betting that staying put, fighting for his place, and making the most of the second half of the season will keep his World Cup dream alive.