Alvaro Arbeloa, the manager of Real Madrid’s youth academy, has publicly backed young stars Franco Mastantuono and Gonzalo Garcia, both of whom are reportedly attracting interest from other clubs for a potential summer exit. Arbeloa acknowledged that his squad, characterized by its youth, sometimes struggles with the mental fortitude required for a full season, but firmly rejected any notion of a leadership deficit.
“We are a very young team, and one only needs to look at our average age,” Arbeloa stated during a press conference. “However, we are talking about exceptional players with significant personality and experience, who have performed admirably. Undoubtedly, there are moments where we need to better understand and navigate situations. This is where the ‘sins of youth’ might become apparent. Nevertheless, we are discussing great players with leadership qualities and abundant personality.”
Arbeloa’s Confidence in Gonzalo
Gonzalo, who has seen limited playing time this season despite being the top scorer in the Club World Cup last summer, is a prominent name linked with a departure. Borussia Dortmund is reportedly among the clubs interested in the 22-year-old.
“These are decisions that the player and the club must make together,” Arbeloa commented. “I know Gonzalo well; he possesses exceptional abilities. He is playing less than he deserves, but I observe his dedicated work ethic, and he has a tremendous future ahead of him. This is a position with immense competition, but that does not diminish his performance. Whenever I have needed him, he has delivered.”
Mastantuono’s “Extraordinary Future”
Speculation also suggests that Mastantuono could depart on loan this summer, having found opportunities scarce after a promising start. The successful transition of Endrick Felipe at Olympique Lyon has led to comparisons and the possibility of Mastantuono benefiting from a similar loan spell.
“He is a young man who is working incredibly hard,” Arbeloa said. “When he plays, he is eager to showcase his capabilities and the reasons why Real Madrid signed him. He could be playing in the youth team, but he possesses such talent and maturity that he doesn’t seem to be only 18. He has an extraordinary future due to his talent, his commitment, and his mentality. Argentinians here tend to integrate well with Real Madrid. He has what it takes to play for Real Madrid, and hopefully, we will have the pleasure of enjoying his presence for many years to come.”
Mastantuono was a regular starter in the initial month of the season under Xabi Alonso. However, following Jude Bellingham’s return, his playing time diminished. A red card during Real Madrid’s narrow 1-0 home defeat against Getafe marked a low point in his season. With five games remaining, he has accumulated 1,265 minutes across 30 appearances.