The young Argentine star Franco Mastantuno is going through a difficult period with Real Madrid this season, as his performance has declined compared to the high expectations that accompanied his joining the royal team last summer.

Mastantuno had joined Real Madrid from River Plate for over 60 million euros, in what is considered the most expensive deal in Argentine football history. The royal club moved quickly to secure his signing before Paris Saint-Germain, which was close to acquiring him, but the player preferred to move to Madrid.

At the beginning of the season, the player enjoyed the confidence of coach Xabi Alonso, but his participation later declined under the current coach Álvaro Arbeloa. Despite the team's absences in the attacking line, Mastantuno has played approximately 1,200 minutes so far, during which he scored three goals and provided one assist.

Observers believe that the 18-year-old player has not yet demonstrated the abilities the audience was expecting. His defensive effort is notably evident, along with some glimpses of skill with his left foot. However, he has not succeeded in establishing himself as a winger due to a lack of speed and dribbling skills. Additionally, he hasn't had the opportunity to play as a playmaker because of strong competition from players like Jude Bellingham, Arda Güler, and Brahim Díaz, as well as Rodrygo before his injury.

This situation led to some reactions from the Santiago Bernabéu crowd, where the player faced boos during some matches. The pressure on him increased after he was sent off in the Getafe match following his protest against the referee, resulting in a two-match suspension and his absence from the Celta Vigo game, as well as the upcoming match against Elche.

Nevertheless, Mastantuno might get a new opportunity to prove himself in the UEFA Champions League during the anticipated match against Manchester City. Although starting seems difficult, the absence of some forwards like Kylian Mbappe and Rodrygo might give him a chance to appear in the second half.

The Argentine player hopes that the Champions League matches, especially against Man City, will be a turning point in his season, in order to regain the fans' confidence and affirm his ability to succeed with Real Madrid in the future.