Real Madrid star warned over future by Argentina legend: “He won’t last long”
Mario Kempes had told Franco Mastantuono he must improve aspects of his game if he is to have a longterm future at the Bernabéu.
Franco Mastantuono arrived at Real Madrid last summer, and his first months at the club have not gone unnoticed. At just 18, he is already seen as one of the club’s brightest prospects. His signing is part of a long-term plan, but some believe he needs to push harder, even at such a young age.
From Argentina, a voice of experience has spoken. Legendary striker Mario Kempes, now 71, urged his compatriot to be braver.
Kempes’ advice for Mastantuono: “It’s Madrid”
“It’s not easy. It’s not River, it’s not Boca… it’s Madrid. At Madrid, you have to win even in training,” Kempes said. “Mastantuono needs to take more risks. He needs to be courageous. If he was brought from River to Madrid, it’s because they saw talent in him. Right now, that talent isn’t working in his favor. If he doesn’t use it, he won’t last long.”
Attack fearlessly and take risks
Kempes encouraged Mastantuono to play like he did in Argentina: shoot from outside the box, take on defenders, and demand the ball. “Look at Lamine Yamal. He loses it sometimes, not often, but he keeps asking for the ball. He attacks, he shoots, he plays. That’s what Mastantuono needs to do. He has to work 20 times harder than Mbappé, Vinicius, or anyone else. Even Rodrygo.”
Mindset matters as much as skill
“Mentally, you have to show it on the pitch. Having talent isn’t enough. People will like you, they’ll respect your effort and your will, but you have to take the lead, not just in some moments. Believe you can be a star, but don’t let it go to your head,” Kempes concluded.
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