Bernabéu speaks out and Xabi Alonso reacts: 'Franco Mastantuono is leaving for the...'

Real Madrid has started the season on the right foot, showing character, cohesion, and a competitive level worthy of a contender. However, amid this strong start, Franco Mastantuono hasn't managed to find his best form in Xabi Alonso's team. His performance has fallen short of what was desired, and the message from within the club is beginning to change.

Franco Mastantuono arrived at Real Madrid with extremely high expectations. Since his arrival, he was identified as one of the most important signings for the new era. He was expected to bring freshness, verticality, and goals, making Florentino Pérez pay more than €60 million for his services.

Franco Mastantuono, from more to less

Against Valencia, Franco Mastantuono regained his starting spot after not playing a single minute in El Clásico, but his performance was quite disappointing. Fans made it clear on social media, where his performance was labeled a "fraud." Although he has had many opportunities and has shown some flashes, it seems he still hasn't managed to convince.

Franco Mastantuono started the season with excitement and minutes, but little by little he has been losing prominence under Xabi Alonso. In the recent Clásico against FC Barcelona, he didn't play a single minute. As mentioned: he was seen as a valid alternative, but reality has turned its back on him.

Xabi Alonso makes a decision with Franco Mastantuono

Now comes the firm turn: Xabi Alonso has decided that, from now on, Franco Mastantuono will go to the bench. In the upcoming matches, Rodrygo or Brahim Díaz will be the preferred options in his position. It's a clear sign: the club is no longer willing to wait indefinitely.

The coach has communicated internally that Franco Mastantuono must earn trust again by training, improving details, and regaining the level that brought him to Madrid. Meanwhile, the competition will remain as high as ever, and the starting spot isn't guaranteed for anyone.

The decision isn't a temporary punishment, but a strategic adjustment. Xabi Alonso needs immediate answers, especially in an attack that must show strength in every match. The support from Bernabéu for this measure is clear: fans want to see effect and performance, not promises.

In a club where the demands are at their highest and the margin for error is slim, Franco Mastantuono faces a huge challenge: to prove he deserves the place he was given. Xabi Alonso knows he's very good, but if he doesn't achieve it in the short term, he could end up relegated to obscurity. It's more than likely that, for now, his place will be taken by Rodrygo or Brahim Díaz.