Franco Mastantuono's move to Real Madrid has been one of the most talked-about transfers of the summer, and the young Argentine has been very open about the significant role that new Real Madrid manager Xabi Alonso played in his decision. The 17-year-old, set to join Los Blancos in August after they triggered his €63 million (approximately $72 million USD) buyout clause, revealed that a phone call with Alonso was all it took to convince him that the Bernabeu was the right destination.

"The way Xabi handled things with me was incredible. I'm really grateful," Mastantuono stated in a recent interview. He emphasized the impact of that conversation, explaining, "That conversation had a big impact on me. When a coach genuinely wants you, that's a huge show of trust, especially when you're leaving a club as massive as River. That's not an easy decision, but his words gave me the motivation I needed to make the leap."

Mastantuono's rise has been meteoric. He enjoyed a fantastic season with River Plate, scoring seven goals and providing four assists in 21 appearances across all competitions. His outstanding performances earned him a call-up to the Argentine national team, where he became the youngest player to ever represent the Albiceleste in an official match, featuring in a World Cup qualifier against Chile earlier this month.

Despite attracting interest from other top European clubs, including the reigning Champions League winners Paris Saint-Germain, Mastantuono felt that Real Madrid's offer was simply too good to pass up. "It's the team that has won the most in Europe, any player wants to play there, and the fact that it's happening to me is a dream come true," he said.

Alonso himself has spoken highly of Mastantuono, even before the young star has set foot in Madrid. "We're happy with Franco because he's a kid with a fantastic present and a brilliant future," Alonso stated, adding, "I was impressed by our conversations — his ambition and maturity really stood out. We've been following him at River, where he's played an important role. We'll have him in August. I really liked his ambition." Alonso even admitted to keeping a close eye on Mastantuono during River Plate's 3-1 victory over Urawa, where the youngster showcased his talent.

Mastantuono is currently focused on helping River Plate in the FIFA Club World Cup in the United States. However, he is already eagerly anticipating the challenges that lie ahead in Madrid. "I know I still have a lot to learn in football and I'm eager to keep growing," he said. "I like to listen, observe and absorb everything around me. That's my greatest strength and it helps me make decisions on the field." He also sees himself as a striker.

Upon his arrival, Mastantuono will face stiff competition for playing time. Real Madrid already boasts a wealth of talent in attacking positions, including Jude Bellingham and Arda Guler. However, Alonso seems to have a plan for the young Argentine. There's speculation that Alonso envisions Mastantuono playing on the right wing, with the freedom to drift centrally as a No. 10 during games. This potential deployment has raised questions about the future of Rodrygo Goes, who has typically occupied the right-wing position for Real Madrid. Some reports suggest that with Mastantuono's arrival, Guler could transition into a permanent midfield role, allowing him to maximize his creativity and playmaking abilities.

Mastantuono's signing marks the third addition to Real Madrid this summer, with the club investing heavily in the young prodigy. As he prepares to embark on this new chapter in his career, the football world eagerly awaits to see how Franco Mastantuono will develop at Real Madrid under the guidance of Xabi Alonso.