The recent transfer of 17-year-old Franco Mastantuono to Real Madrid has sparked mixed reactions, most notably from River Plate's coach, Marcelo Gallardo. While acknowledging the inevitability of such moves in modern football, Gallardo has expressed concern that the transfer occurred prematurely, much to the disappointment of River Plate fans.

Real Madrid officially announced the signing of the highly-rated Argentine youngster on June 13, 2025. Mastantuono, who had a €45 million (approximately $51.7 million) release clause in his River Plate contract, is set to join the Spanish giants on a six-year deal. He will make the move to the Bernabéu in August, after he turns 18, allowing him to participate in the upcoming Club World Cup with River Plate. The total cost of the transfer is reported to be $72.6 million, making him the most expensive sale in the history of Argentine football, after factoring in taxes and other fees.

Gallardo's sentiment reflects a common frustration among fans who cherish seeing young talents develop within their local clubs. He believes Mastantuono's move to Real Madrid came too soon, while the player was still developing and pivotal to River Plate's future. The Argentine manager acknowledged Mastantuono's departure will leave a void in his squad. He stated that the club's sporting project for the year was built around Mastantuono and they would have to readjust their plans.

Despite his reservations, Gallardo understands the realities of the modern game. "It's natural, we train players for the world. Everything is happening earlier, young players are leaving faster, and I understand that those are the rules of the game," he told ESPN. He also recognizes the impact on the fans, admitting, "We knew that Mastantuono was going to leave at some point, but fans don't enjoy it that way. The market dictates the timing."

Gallardo is urging Mastantuono to remain focused on the present, particularly on the Club World Cup. "All I want is for him to play naturally, to try to forget about everything that's going on, which is very difficult," he said. "I don't talk to him about where he's going to live or anything like that. I want him to play, which is what he knows how to do."

Mastantuono's rise has been meteoric. He made his debut for River Plate at just 16 years old in January 2024, and quickly became their youngest-ever goalscorer. In total, he made 61 appearances for the club, scoring 10 goals. His preferred position is on the right-wing, where he can cut in on his left foot, but he can also play as an attacking midfielder. He also became Argentina's youngest-ever player when he made his debut for the national team earlier this month.

Real Madrid's acquisition of Mastantuono is a clear indication of their strategy to secure top young talents from around the world. The club has already been active in the transfer market, signing Trent Alexander-Arnold and Dean Huijsen. With Xabi Alonso taking over as manager, Real Madrid is aiming for a successful season after a trophyless 2024/25 campaign.

While the transfer is a significant loss for River Plate, the club is preparing for the future. River Plate began their Club World Cup campaign with a 3-1 win over Japan's Urawa Red Diamonds, a result Gallardo described as key to easing early nerves. Following a match against Monterrey, River will face Champions League runners-up Inter Milan.