Key Takeaways:
- Real Madrid officially presented Franco Mastantuono earlier today following his transfer from River Plate
- Mastantuono celebrated his 18th birthday today, making him eligible to join the first-team squad
- The Argentine winger will wear the number 30 shirt, mirroring his River Plate jersey, while the club continues to reserve number 25
Presentation Ceremony at Valdebebas
Real Madrid marked the arrival of Argentine talent Franco Mastantuono with a formal ceremony at their Valdebebas training centre earlier today. Having completed his move from River Plate this summer, Mastantuono was presented on the day he turned 18—a milestone that permitted him to formally become part of the Spanish giants’ squad.
👕 #WelcomeMastantuono 👕 pic.twitter.com/VGACo7QOwa
— Real Madrid C.F. (@realmadrid) August 14, 2025
Prior to his unveiling, Mastantuono passed his medical examinations and finalised his contract. He posed for photographs in front of the club’s renowned trophy cabinet, donning the number 30 shirt, the same number he wore during his tenure at River Plate. Notably, Real Madrid assign numbers above 25 strictly to their B team players, which highlights speculation that the sole remaining first-team number 25 may be reserved for another potential signing before the transfer window closes.
Highlights from the Event
The proceedings commenced with a video montage showcasing Mastantuono’s achievements and highlights as a right winger at River Plate. Following the visual tribute, several speeches were delivered to welcome the club’s latest addition.
Florentino Pérez, the president of Real Madrid, offered the following remarks to Mastantuono and attending guests: “Today is a special day. One of the world’s biggest emerging talents in football in recent years arrives at our club. Dear Mastantuono, congratulations, because today one of your big dreams comes true, and on your birthday no less. I want to especially mention River Plate—a club with a historic connection to Real Madrid. We feel admiration and pride. Today, you join the prestigious list of Argentine players who have been at Real Madrid. From today, you will wear the white jersey with 15 European Cups. Thank you very much for your desire to be here with us.”
Mastantuono’s Reflections
Addressing the audience, Mastantuono expressed gratitude for the opportunity and for the support he has received throughout his journey: “Thanks to everyone who is here and to the president. My dream of joining the biggest club in the world has come true. This is a special day that I will remember for the rest of my life. I want to thank my family and friends for always being by my side. Without you this wouldn’t have been possible. Thanks as well to all the people in Argentina, which is very special for me. I still have a lot to learn, but these values come from my environment. I promise that I will dedicate my life to this shirt. This is a dream I have always had. Thanks to everyone at the club for the trust. On the field, you will see a true fan of the club playing. Thank you all and Hala Madrid!”
After delivering his speech, Mastantuono joined Florentino Pérez for photographs, before proceeding to a dedicated press conference to discuss his move and aspirations with Real Madrid.
