JUST IN: Franco Mastantuono will play against Osasuna. Xabi Alonso’s plan is to give him minutes in this match.

Real Madrid are set to hand one of their brightest young talents, Franco Mastantuono, a first-team opportunity against Osasuna. According to reports from Diario AS, new head coach Xabi Alonso has decided to include the Argentine teenager in his plans for the upcoming La Liga clash, with the intention of gradually introducing him into competitive action at the Santiago Bernabéu.

Mastantuono, only 17 years old, has already been tipped as one of the most exciting prospects in world football. Signed from River Plate earlier this year, the midfielder has quickly adapted to life in Spain and impressed during training sessions. His technical ability, maturity on the ball, and eye for goal have convinced Alonso that he is ready to take his first step with the senior squad.

The match against Osasuna is seen as the perfect opportunity for his debut. With Real Madrid juggling a demanding schedule in both La Liga and the Champions League, Alonso has been keen to rotate his squad carefully, ensuring experienced stars remain fresh while also giving minutes to the next generation. Mastantuono is expected to come off the bench, offering fans a first glimpse of the player many believe could be a future star at the Bernabéu.

For Alonso, the decision is not only about rewarding talent but also about planning for the future. Real Madrid’s midfield, stacked with world-class names such as Luka Modrić, Toni Kroos, Jude Bellingham, Eduardo Camavinga, and Aurélien Tchouaméni, will eventually need renewal. With Modrić and Kroos nearing the twilight of their careers, the introduction of Mastantuono symbolizes the club’s forward-looking approach to squad building.

Fans have been buzzing ever since the news broke. Many see Mastantuono’s potential as reminiscent of past South American stars who made their mark in Madrid—players like Fernando Redondo, Ángel Di María, and even a young Gonzalo Higuaín. The pressure will certainly be there, but Mastantuono’s calm personality and determination suggest he has the temperament to thrive under the spotlight.

This move also underlines Real Madrid’s continued strategy of blending proven world-class talent with youthful promise. Just as Vinícius Jr. and Rodrygo were carefully integrated into the squad in their teenage years, Mastantuono is now poised to follow a similar trajectory. With patience, guidance, and game time, he could soon be one of the club’s most important assets.

The choice of Osasuna as the match for his introduction is no coincidence. While always a difficult opponent, the fixture is seen as less intense than some of Madrid’s other upcoming clashes. This gives Alonso the ideal scenario to ease the youngster into the rhythm of Spanish top-flight football without excessive pressure.

Beyond the tactical considerations, Mastantuono’s debut would also be symbolic. It highlights Madrid’s belief in nurturing young players, showing supporters that the club is not only about Galáctico signings but also about investing in long-term talent. It sends a message that the future is being carefully shaped, with Alonso already stamping his authority on squad planning.

Should he feature, Mastantuono will become one of the youngest players to represent Real Madrid in an official match, joining a list that includes legends such as Raúl González and more recently, Vinícius Jr. and Arda Güler. For a player who grew up dreaming of European football, stepping onto the pitch at the Bernabéu will be a life-changing moment.

While the minutes he receives may be limited, they could mark the beginning of a significant journey. Every star has their debut story, and for Mastantuono, Saturday against Osasuna could be the chapter that starts his Real Madrid legacy.

One thing is certain: the eyes of Madridistas around the world will be glued to the screen, eager to see if the hype surrounding this teenage sensation matches the reality. With Alonso pulling the strings and Mastantuono waiting in the wings, Real Madrid’s future looks brighter than ever.