Franco Mastantuono has been called a “generational talent” in Argentina, and now he’s set to join Spanish giants Real Madrid. But before that happens, the 17-year-old phenom might eliminate them from the FIFA Club World Cup on American soil.
Mastantuono to play for River in the USA before Madrid move
Madrid and River Plate haven’t officially confirmed the deal yet, but multiple top-tier media outlets report that Mastantuono will head to Spain after the 2025 Club World Cup, which runs from June 14 to July 13 in the United States.
That timing creates a bizarre possibility: Mastantuono could face - and knock out - his future club before even wearing their jersey.
River Plate, who earned their spot based on CONMEBOL’s four-year ranking, have named the teenage playmaker in their traveling roster for the tournament. It will be his final appearance with the club where he made his name.
How and when Mastantuono could face Real Madrid in the Club World Cup
The tournament draw keeps River and Real Madrid apart in the group stage. River will face Inter Milan, Monterrey, and Japan’s Urawa Red Diamonds in Group E. Madrid are in Group H alongside Pachuca, Al Hilal, and Red Bull Salzburg.
But if both teams make it past the round of 16, they could collide in the quarterfinals, scheduled for Saturday, July 5, at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey.
Madrid are heavy favorites to win Group H, which would pit them against the Group G runner-up (Manchester City, Juventus, Wydad, or Al Ain) in the round of 16. If River Plate finish second in Group E, they’d take on the winner of Group F (which includes Borussia Dortmund and Fluminense).
If both win those matchups, all eyes will turn to MetLife, where a 17-year-old could shock the world by sending his future team home.