Real Madrid manager Alvaro Arbeloa has voiced his support for young talents Franco Mastantuono and Gonzalo Garcia, amidst speculation about their potential departures this summer. Los Blancos are reportedly planning squad changes, and both Garcia and Mastantuono are rumored to be among those who might move on.
During a press conference, Arbeloa acknowledged that his team has, at times, lacked the necessary mentality to consistently compete throughout a season. However, he firmly refuted the notion that Real Madrid is deficient in leadership.
“We are a very young team, and you only have to look at the average age,” Arbeloa stated. “But we are talking about great players here, with a lot of personality and experience, who have accomplished significant work. Undoubtedly, there have been situations we could have handled better, which might reflect the ‘sins of youth.’ Nevertheless, these are exceptional players with leadership qualities and abundant personality.”
Arbeloa on Gonzalo: “He Has Delivered When Needed”
Gonzalo is one of the players prominently linked with an exit. Despite finishing as the top scorer in the Club World Cup last summer, his playing time this season has been limited. Reports suggest Borussia Dortmund is interested in signing the 22-year-old.
“These are decisions for the player and the club to make,” Arbeloa commented. “I know Gonzalo well; he possesses exceptional abilities. While he’s playing less than he deserves, I see him working diligently, and he has a bright future ahead of him. The competition in his position is immense, but that doesn’t diminish his performance. Whenever I’ve needed him, he has delivered.”
Mastantuono Has an “Extraordinary Future”
There are also suggestions that Mastantuono could be loaned out this summer, having found opportunities scarce after a promising start to the season. The success of Endrick Felipe at Olympique Lyon has sparked discussions about whether Mastantuono could benefit from a similar loan spell.
“He’s a young man who is working incredibly hard,” Arbeloa said. “When he plays, he’s eager to showcase his capabilities and why Real Madrid signed him. He could be playing for the youth team, but he possesses so much talent and maturity that he doesn’t seem 18. He has an extraordinary future due to his talent, commitment, and mentality. Argentinian players often integrate well at Real Madrid, and he has what it takes to play here. Hopefully, we can enjoy his presence for many years.”
Mastantuono was a key player in the first month of the season under Xabi Alonso. However, following Jude Bellingham’s return, he saw a reduction in playing time. A red card during Real Madrid’s 1-0 home defeat to Getafe was a low point in his season. With five games remaining, he has accumulated 1,265 minutes across 30 appearances.
