Real Madrid Signs Franco Mastantuono from River Plate in Record-Breaking Deal
Danny Jefferson | August 1, 2025
Franco Mastantuono in Seattle at the final Club World Cup group stage match between Inter and River Plate on June 23, 2025. / Danny Jefferson Independent. Frames Copyright © 2025
Real Madrid has officially signed 17-year-old Franco Mastantuono from River Plate in a deal that makes headlines across both South American and European football. The move was confirmed in June 2025, with Mastantuono set to officially join the Spanish giants on August 14, the day he turns 18.
The agreement includes a total transfer fee of €63.2 million, making Mastantuono the most expensive player ever sold by River Plate and the highest-valued export in Argentine football history. Of the total fee, €45 million will go directly to River Plate, with the remaining amount covering taxes and associated costs.
Former River Plate F Franco Mastantuono in Seattle at the final Club World Cup group stage match between Inter and River Plate on June 23, 2025. / Danny Jefferson Independent. Frames Copyright © 2025
While the deal is finalized, Mastantuono will remain with River through the conclusion of their 2025 FIFA Club World Cup campaign in the United States. He is expected to report to Madrid later in August, ahead of the new season.
Mastantuono, a product of River’s academy system, made headlines as the club’s youngest-ever goalscorer in early 2024 and recently impressed in the Superclásico with a standout free-kick goal against Boca Juniors. On June 5, 2025, he debuted for Argentina’s senior national team in a World Cup qualifier against Chile, becoming the youngest player ever to do so.
Former River Plate F Franco Mastantuono in Seattle at the final Club World Cup group stage match between Inter and River Plate on June 23, 2025. / Danny Jefferson Independent. Frames Copyright © 2025
Real Madrid manager Xabi Alonso reportedly played a key role in securing the signing, personally reaching out to the player to express the club’s vision and belief in his future. Mastantuono has signed a six-year contract that runs through June 2031.
Known for his technical skill, creativity, and left-footed precision, Mastantuono is expected to integrate into Madrid’s long-term midfield plans, joining a promising young core already in place.
For River Plate, the sale of Mastantuono is bittersweet. While the record fee provides a financial boost, the departure of such a young, game-changing talent marks the end of a chapter that had only just begun. The club had hoped to hold onto him longer, but with Real Madrid willing to pay the full release clause, River’s hand was forced. Fans will get one final look at him on the world stage as he competes in the Club World Cup before making the leap to Europe.
Former River Plate F Franco Mastantuono in Seattle at the final Club World Cup group stage match between Inter and River Plate on June 23, 2025. / Danny Jefferson Independent. Frames Copyright © 2025
From Madrid’s side, this is a long-term investment with clear upside. The club has built a reputation for locking in top youth talent early, and Mastantuono fits that mold perfectly. With players like Modrić and Kroos nearing the end of their careers, Madrid is clearly preparing for the next generation. While there’s no rush to throw Mastantuono into the starting lineup, his skill set gives Alonso another versatile piece to develop within the system.
All eyes will be on how he transitions to the European game. The pressure of playing at the Bernabéu, in front of demanding fans and world-class teammates, will be a test. But if his performances in Argentina and early international appearances are anything to go by, Franco Mastantuono is built for the big stage — and Real Madrid just might have found their next star.
From Milan to Monumental: River Plate Meets Inter in a World Stage War!
Danny Jefferson | June 25, 2025
River Plate defender Marcos Acuña and Inter defender Denzel Dumfriesbattle for a lose possession on Inter’s side of the pitch at Lumen Field in Seattle, Washington. / Danny Jefferson Independent. Frames Copyright © 2025
SEATTLE — In a display of tactical discipline and decisive execution, Inter Milan outclassed River Plate 2–0 in their final Group E encounter at the FIFA Club World Cup on Wednesday, June 25, 2025, at Seattle’s Lumen Field. The result secured a top spot in the group for the Italian side and propelled them into the Round of 16 against Fluminense.
A High-Stakes Group Finale
Both teams entered the match on four points, aware that even a draw would have secured qualification. However, Inter’s ambition was clear from the outset. The Nerazzurri sought to not only progress but to do so in style, dictating the tempo of a match that would ultimately prove to be a masterclass in controlled aggression and composure under pressure.
Inter F Lautaro Martínez , at Lumen Field in Seattle, Washington. / Danny Jefferson Independent. Frames Copyright © 2025
Match Timeline and Key Moments
After a cautious first half in which both sides tested each other’s defenses, the breakthrough came in the 72nd minute. Inter’s forward Francesco Pio Esposito capitalized on a rare defensive lapse, curling a shot past the River Plate keeper to put the visitors ahead. This goal shifted the momentum decisively in Inter’s favor, forcing River Plate to react under increasingly desperate circumstances.
With the clock winding down, Inter continued to press their advantage. In a dramatic stoppage-time surge, defender Alessandro Bastoni sealed the victory with a powerful finish from a well-worked set piece. His goal not only doubled Inter’s lead but also punctuated what had been a night of relentless pressure against a diminishing River Plate side.
Inter defender Matteo Darmian defends off an attack by River Plate forward Facundo Colidio at Lumen Field in Seattle, Washington. / Danny Jefferson Independent. Frames Copyright © 2025
Discipline and Decisive Moments
The match took an unexpected turn as River Plate suffered significant setbacks on the disciplinary front. Lucas Martínez Quarta and Gonzalo Montiel were both shown red cards in the second half. With these dismissals, River Plate found themselves reduced to nine men, a blow that was palpable as the match entered its final stages. The numerical disadvantage severely hampered their ability to mount a comeback, as the Italian side’s disciplined defense and efficient counterattacks left little room for error.
Defensive Masterclass by Inter Milan
Inter’s defensive unit deserves commendation for their resolute performance throughout the match. A combination of tactical awareness and effective communication meant that River Plate’s attacking forays were stifled time and again. Goalkeeper Yann Sommer, while largely untroubled due to the strong defensive effort, maintained focus and composure, ensuring that his side kept a clean sheet against a persistent River Plate offense.
River Plate goalkeeper Franco Armani giving defensive instructions to his teammate at Lumen Field in Seattle, Washington. / Danny Jefferson Independent. Frames Copyright © 2025
Post-Match Turbulence
The post-match scene was not without controversy. Tensions escalated immediately after the final whistle when River Plate’s Marcos Acuña was seen pursuing Inter’s Denzel Dumfries toward the tunnel, sparking a brief scuffle. Intervention by team officials and coaching staff from both sides was required to restore order, reflecting the high emotions and stakes surrounding the match.
Statistical Insights and Tactical Overview
Possession and Shots: Inter Milan maintained a slight edge in overall possession, underpinning their control of the midfield in the latter stages of the match. The forward line, while not overly prolific in terms of shots on target, capitalized on the few clear chances presented to them.
Set Pieces: Both teams had opportunities from set pieces, but it was Inter’s precision and timing on a late set piece that ultimately resulted in Bastoni’s winning goal.
Red Cards and Impact: The dismissal of Lucas Martínez Quarta and Gonzalo Montiel not only hampered River Plate’s attacking potential but also forced them into a more defensive posture as they sought to salvage pride in the closing stages.
Inter F Lautaro Martínez , Francesco Esposito, and midfielder Petar Sucic celebrate after a goal in their match V River Plate at Lumen Field in Seattle, Washington. / Danny Jefferson Independent. Frames Copyright © 2025
Looking Ahead
With the group stage now concluded, Inter Milan look forward to a challenging Round of 16 clash against Fluminense. Their victory in this game, marked by tactical maturity and composure under pressure, has set the stage for what could be a rewarding run in the tournament. For River Plate, the narrow defeat serves as a harsh reminder of the fine margins that separate success from elimination at the international level. Despite their early promise in the tournament, the loss adds to mounting frustrations over a campaign that ultimately ended in group-stage disappointment.
The match was played in front of a packed crowd at Lumen Field, reflecting growing global interest in the Club World Cup and the increasing competitiveness of its participants. Both teams showcased attributes that underline their respective domestic and continental credentials, ensuring that this confrontation will be remembered as one of the marquee matchups of the tournament.
River plate supporter looks on in tears as her team fails to qualify for the knockout stage as River Plate loses to Inter in Seattle, Washington. / Danny Jefferson Independent. Frames Copyright © 2025
Seattle vs. the Superstars: Club World Cup Spotlight on PSG Showdown
Danny Jefferson | June 23, 2025
SEATTLE — In front of over 50,000 fans at Lumen Field, Seattle Sounders FC wrapped up their Club World Cup debut with a 2–0 loss to Paris Saint-Germain. The result ended the Sounders’ tournament run in the group stage, while PSG advanced to the knockout round as Group B leaders.
Seattle came out of the gate with energy and purpose. Their press caused some early discomfort for PSG, and they enjoyed solid spells of possession in the opening 10 minutes. The crowd came alive when midfielder Paul Rothrock forced a poor clearance from Gianluigi Donnarumma, and Jesús Ferreira nearly capitalized but misfired just wide. Those missed chances would loom large.
Despite Seattle’s strong start, PSG’s quality began to surface. Stefan Frei was tested multiple times in the first half, including key saves on Désiré Doué. The breakthrough came in the 35th minute when a shot from Vitinha took a deflection off Khvicha Kvaratskhelia and beat Frei at his far post. The goal was unlucky for Seattle, as the original shot seemed to be heading wide.
After taking the lead, PSG slowed the game down and controlled the tempo. By halftime, the visitors had racked up nearly 75% possession, and Seattle had yet to register a shot on target. The Sounders found it difficult to break PSG’s midfield shape, with Marco Asensio and Fabian Ruiz dictating the pace from the center.
The second half continued much the same. In the 66th minute, PSG doubled their advantage when Bradley Barcola broke forward on the counterattack and found an unmarked Achraf Hakimi at the far post. Hakimi calmly finished past Frei, leaving Seattle in a 2–0 hole with little time to respond.
Seattle coach Brian Schmetzer made late substitutions to spark a comeback, including the return of Jordan Morris, who received a loud ovation after recovering from injury. Cristian Roldan and Morris both had efforts near the end, but neither could find the target. Defender Nouhou made a last-ditch clearance off the line in the 86th to prevent a third PSG goal.
Despite being shut out in all three group stage matches, Seattle’s effort throughout the tournament earned respect. Facing the reigning UEFA Champions League winners and other international giants gave the squad a taste of the global stage. The experience, though humbling, will likely fuel motivation heading back into MLS competition.
PSG, meanwhile, finished with six points and topped Group B on goal difference over Atlético Madrid. Botafogo advanced as well, rounding out the top three. The Sounders now return to domestic play, with a quick turnaround as they host Austin FC at home on June 28.
The match closed a historic week for Seattle, who became the first MLS team to ever compete in a Club World Cup on home soil. While the results didn’t go their way, the atmosphere, attendance, and global exposure showcased the club’s growth and ambition on the international stage.
