Mastantuono: 'It wasn't an easy year at Real Madrid'

Franco Mastantuono, the Argentine player on loan at Fiorentina, reflected on his challenging previous season with Real Madrid, describing it as "not an easy year." He sees his move to the Italian club as a significant opportunity to demonstrate his true potential as a footballer.

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In Madrid, we all had a complicated season, it wasn't an easy year, but, as I always say, these things help you improve, learn, and think that you can always get better, that there is always room for improvement in football.

"In Madrid, we all had a complicated season, it wasn't an easy year, but, as I always say, these things help you improve, learn, and think that you can always get better, that there is always room for improvement in football," Mastantuono stated during his first press conference as a Fiorentina player. He emphasized that this move is not about revenge but rather a chance to showcase his skills and contribute to Fiorentina's success.

Mastantuono described his departure from Real Madrid as "very cordial and friendly." He chose Fiorentina from several options because the club's project deeply impressed him. "I made this decision a week before the announcement and I am very happy," he asserted, expressing his commitment to leading Fiorentina "to the top."

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It's not a revenge, but an opportunity to try to show the player I am and to help Fiorentina.

He highlighted the "privilege" of having played for both Real Madrid and River Plate. The reception from Fiorentina's fans has been "incredible," reminding him of home in Argentina. He enjoys simple moments, like playing on the beach with friends, which he finds normal and grounding.

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I made this decision a week before the announcement and I am very happy.

Looking to the future, Mastantuono expressed his admiration for Fiorentina legend Gabriel Batistuta and his desire to emulate his success at the club. He also mentioned speaking with former teammates like Martínez Quarta and Nico González, who spoke highly of the club's atmosphere. During the 2025-2026 season, the 19-year-old Mastantuono played 1,484 minutes in 35 matches for Real Madrid, scoring three goals across all competitions.

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They have given me a lot of affection and that reminds me of my home, Argentina.