Mastanuno: I Play More Comfortably with Arbeloa, and I Would Choose This Title to Win
Tuesday 27-01-2026
Real Madrid star Franco Mastantonio appeared in a press interview, where he discussed his difficult departure from Argentina, Florentino Perez, Vinicius, the presence of Bellingham, and, of course, the change of coach.

He said about his departure from Argentina: "It was a very difficult situation. On one hand, there was the childhood love, and the fact that I grew up in a club like River, which provided a livelihood for my family since I was 13 years old. On the other hand, it was the opportunity of a lifetime: coming to Real Madrid. It was a painful decision. I never doubted Real Madrid, but sometimes a person doesn't want to leave home."

He added: "It was difficult, but I am very happy to be here. I knew this was my dream and the dream of many football players, and I let myself be led by this dream. My constant dream will be to retire at River Plate."

Regarding Alonso's departure and the appointment of Álvaro Arbeloa: "The entire coaching staff of Arbeloa has given me great confidence, and I believe this is essential for any player. They have shown me a lot of trust, which is wonderful for me. I play more comfortably now because of this. I am very grateful to this coaching staff. I also thank Xabi and his coaching team, as they trusted me to be here, but Álvaro is a great coach and helps us a lot. I believe that this way we will achieve the goals we have set."

Regarding Florentino Perez, he summed it up with one word: "Majestic."

He continued in his talk about scoring a goal at the Bernabéu: "It was a moment I had been waiting for. Scoring a goal with Real Madrid at the Santiago Bernabéu is pure adrenaline, something unique, honestly hard to explain."

Regarding Vinicius Junior: "Vini has been an outstanding player for a long time and has maintained his position among the best players in the world. Like anyone, he goes through moments that are not at the level people expect. The downside for a player of such high caliber is that when he doesn't perform at a 9 or 10, he faces harsh criticism. I don't think he went through a bad period. He had matches that weren't very good, but they weren't bad to me; he just didn't deliver the performances people were used to, which is why the fans weren't pleased. He had a fantastic year and was the best in the world. He is someone who helps us a lot, both the young players and the entire team. He has positive energy and infectious happiness, which is why it's very important for him to be in good form for the team's confidence. It's not just about defending him; this is the truth. We know everything he contributes in the locker room and on the field, and most importantly, as a person. We want him to be well."

He added in his talk about Jude Bellingham: "Bellingham is a better person than he is a player. He is an amazing human being, and we have formed a very beautiful friendship. It's wonderful to share a team with a player of this quality. We have an excellent relationship."

Regarding his close relationship with Fede Valverde: "Culture sometimes plays a positive role, and that's what happens with Fede. He is a wonderful person, helps me a lot, we talk a lot and share many things. It's a pleasure to be with him."

He said, "Winning the league or the Champions League? The Champions League, as it is the biggest goal this club always seeks. If I had to choose one title, I would choose the Champions League."

He concluded: "Do you dream of playing with Argentina in the World Cup? Certainly, this is a big dream for me. Winning the remaining championships with Real Madrid, like the league and the Champions League, is also part of my dreams. This season will be special for me, as it's my first with Real Madrid where we can achieve our goals. After that, playing in the World Cup with my national team and defending the title is also a major goal."

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