Real Madrid could face a legal challenge over Franco Mastantuono’s potential debut against Osasuna
Real Madrid open their La Liga campaign on Tuesday by hosting Osasuna, with Xabi Alonso taking charge for the league fixture for the first time since succeeding Carlo Ancelotti after the Club World Cup break.
The 43-year-old, who enjoyed five seasons with Real Madrid as a player, has the backing of the club in the transfer market, with new arrivals including Trent Alexander-Arnold, Dean Huijsen and Alvaro Carreras. In addition, attacking midfielder Franco Mastantuono joined for a reported £38.5 million and has trained with the first team ahead of what could be his Real Madrid bow.
However, Mastantuono’s involvement could drag Real Madrid into a potential legal dispute. Spanish outlet El Chiringuito reported via Miguel Galan that Mastantuono’s registration could be questioned due to questions over the first-team registration process. The 18-year-old is officially listed with Real Madrid Castilla, the club’s B team, in an apparent bid to navigate registration limits for the first team. Osasuna—who previously filed a complaint against Barcelona over Inigo Martinez last season—could pursue a similar action, accusing Real Madrid of acting in bad faith by registering him through alternative channels.
If Osasuna decide to take action, they would have a 24-hour window after tonight’s game to submit a complaint.
What Alonso has said about Mastantuono
Mastantuono has not yet played for Real Madrid since arriving from River Plate in the summer. He could feature against Osasuna, with Alonso suggesting he could “get minutes tomorrow” in the season opener.
In speaking to reporters on Monday, Alonso outlined Mastantuono’s strengths: “He’s going to bring quality, energy. He’s committed defensively, he’s got good drive. In a short time I’ve seen that grit, that Argentine warrior spirit, but also real quality… he’s combative. And he’s got a spectacular left foot.” The Madrid boss added that Mastantuono could impact the game either on set pieces, with the final pass, or in finishing, noting the youngster is “young, but very mature for his age” and that Real Madrid will support him as he adapts.
What this could mean for Real Madrid
The potential registration issue highlights the broader strategic gamble Real Madrid is making in reinforcing Alonso’s squad with young talent alongside proven stars. If the complaint from Osasuna is pursued, the club could face scrutiny over registration procedures and the boundaries between first-team and reserve-team rosters. Regardless, Alonso’s early confidence in Mastantuono signals a willingness to integrate new talents quickly, while also emphasizing the need for discipline in player categorization and compliance with league rules.
Additional context and potential implications
– Osasuna’s stance would mirror previous actions taken by clubs seeking clarity on registration rules to prevent possible misuse of B team registrations to bypass first-team limits.
– A ruling against Real Madrid could force changes in how the club lists players or delays Mastantuono’s debut, affecting Alonso’s early plans for squad rotation.
– Real Madrid’s recent signings, including high-profile names, demonstrate the club’s ambition to compete on multiple fronts, with Mastantuono viewed as a long-term asset rather than an immediate fix.
Summary
Real Madrid’s new era under Xabi Alonso faces a crossroads ahead of the Osasuna clash, not just on the field but off it, with Mastantuono’s registration potentially drawing regulatory scrutiny. Alonso has expressed clear faith in Mastantuono’s talent and impact, positioning him as a dynamic option for the season opener and beyond while Real Madrid navigates the complexities of squad registration and compliance.
Additional note
– If you’re updating match previews, consider adding a sidebar explaining how registration rules work for first-team vs. Castilla players to help readers understand the potential controversy and its consequences. Also, a short player profile on Mastantuono could help readers get acquainted with a rising talent who might shape Real Madrid’s season.