Franco Mastantuono: Demichelis says he’s Real Madrid material

Martín Demichelis, Leipzig head coach, said this Monday that Franco Mastantuono “is” a player for Real Madrid thanks to his “personality” and “physical and technical” qualities. The Argentine, who arrived at the Spanish giants for the record transfer fee in Argentine football history, has been sent out on loan this season to Fiorentina to get playing time.

Time and adaptation

Demichelis argued that the jump to European football requires adjustment: “He needs time,” citing Santiago Solari and Gonzalo Higuaín as examples. He also said he spoke with Mastantuono, River’s leadership and “his parents” to understand their contractual situation before the 16-year-old debut.

Club bet and clause

The coach added that, day to day, Mastantuono was among the “top three or five” physically, especially in recovery, and stressed his mindset. He also claimed Xabi Alonso highlighted his personality after meeting him, and noted how Real Madrid worked intensely on his case, including setting an “illogical” buy clause for the Argentine market.