Former Real Madrid forward Javier Saviola has shared his honest assessment of Franco Mastantuono’s start in Spain, urging patience as the young Argentine adapts to life at one of Europe’s biggest clubs.
Speaking to AS, Saviola mainly discussed Madrid’s upcoming Champions League clash with Benfica, but he also took time to analyse his fellow countryman’s development.
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The parallels between their careers are clear, as both left River Plate at a young age to join European giants.
Reflecting on that similarity, Saviola explained,
“Yes. We both arrived very young from River Plate at a big European club. He hasn’t quite delivered everything that’s expected of him, but it’s his first year.
“In Spain, La Liga is very different from what is played in South America. We have to wait for him to finish his adaptation and evolution process because he has a lot of quality.
“That explosion will come, I have no doubt. I have faith that he will give a lot to Madrid,” he began saying.
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Comparisons with Lamine Yamal
The former striker believes the demands of Spanish football require time and adjustment, especially for young South American talents. For Saviola, the keyword is patience.
Inevitably, comparisons have already begun, particularly with Lamine Yamal. When asked whether Mastantuono could reach that level, Saviola was cautious about drawing direct parallels.
“That comparison works against Mastantuono because Lamine didn’t need a period of adaptation.
Franco Mastantuono needs time to adapt. (Photo by Jose Manuel Alvarez Rey/Getty Images)
“I had him in Barça’s youth team and you could already see that he was different, that his personality was not normal.
“That analogy is complicated for Franco at the moment, but when he completes the process, we’ll see what version he offers.
“When I arrived at Barcelona at the age of 19, Zidane was at Madrid. Someone tried to compare us and I laughed because the Frenchman was an animal on the field.
“Those comparisons are not good.”
What next for Mastantuno?
He stated that talent should be allowed to grow naturally, without the pressure of unrealistic expectations.
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Looking ahead, Saviola outlined what he believes Mastantuono can offer once fully settled at Madrid.
“He’s a very direct player. He can give a lot as a winger. In one-on-one situations, he can be strong, and he’ll have to evolve in his approach to the opponent’s goal and in his finishing.
“He’s going to refine the details, and hopefully that explosion will come soon because he can give a lot more.
“When he adapts and has continuity, he’ll be the player Madrid is waiting for,” he concluded.
