Khaberni - The Spanish newspaper "Defensa Central" revealed that Argentine legend Lionel Messi expressed great admiration for Franco Mastantono, a young Real Madrid midfielder, during the latter's visit to the "Albiceleste" camp in Elche.
Taking advantage of the Argentine national team's presence in Spain due to an injury, Mastantono met with his teammates.
During the conversation with them, Messi spoke about the young player’s future, confirming in private talks and in front of the other players that a great future awaits Mastantono.
Messi, in a surprising praise for a player from traditional rival Real Madrid, mentioned that Franco is "a genius," but he asked him to be patient.
He emphasized the need to give Mastantono ample time to adapt, saying, "It's difficult to adapt to new football after arriving from Argentina, and he needs time."
The adaptation dilemma at "Bernabeu"
This advice comes at a time when Mastantono faces some questions and criticisms about his start at Real Madrid, as he has yet to find the consistency in performance despite the trust of coach Xabi Alonso.
The report clarified that Mastantono left the Argentine camp with a broad smile after hearing positive and encouraging words from a star of Messi’s stature, who wished him success at the Bernabeu and contributing to significant achievements with the Argentine national team.
The newspaper confirmed that the biggest challenge facing the player (18 years old) is not only on the football side but also extends to adapting to a radical change in life after leaving Argentina and moving to Europe.
