Before he could break out, the young Real Madrid talent is already facing the risk of losing his spot.

Franco Mastantuono faces the threat of losing his place in the starting lineup at Real Madrid as his form remains unstable, with competition for positions growing fiercer in the Los Blancos team.

Franco Mastantuono is entering a challenging phase in his debut season with Real Madrid, as doubts arise over the young Argentine talent’s starting role following uneven performances.

Although still highly regarded for his potential, Mastantuono has yet to fully convince the coaching staff. According to MARCA, the 2007-born player is increasingly feeling the pressure from the bench, not only because of fluctuating form but also due to his incomplete adaptation to the role he currently plays at Bernabéu.

Mastantuono’s biggest issue lies in his position on the field. Positioned on the right wing, he struggles to create breakthroughs typical of a pure winger, rarely beating defenders on the flank and often drifting inside to find space. At his former club River Plate, he excelled as an attacking midfielder, a role that allowed him to showcase his technical skills and tactical vision.

However, at Real Madrid, that role is almost fully occupied by Jude Bellingham and Arda Güler, forcing Mastantuono to adapt to a new position. Under Xabi Alonso and Álvaro Arbeloa, he has mainly been deployed on the right flank. His strengths include work rate, pressing ability, and defensive support, but his offensive contributions remain limited.

This inconsistency has been evident in recent matches. Mastantuono was first given a start in the Copa del Rey against Albacete but disappointed and was substituted in the 77th minute. He then came off the bench against Levante, started again against Villarreal and Rayo Vallecano. Notably, his lackluster performance against Rayo led to boos from some fans as he left the pitch, signaling that patience is running thin.

Meanwhile, competition is intensifying. Brahim Díaz has returned, Rodrygo is back from injury, and both Eduardo Camavinga and Federico Valverde can be pushed higher up the pitch with Trent Alexander-Arnold back at right-back.

With so many quality options available, Mastantuono must quickly improve his form if he wants to maintain his place at Real Madrid, where opportunities always come with immense pressure.