Real Madrid youngster Franco Mastantuono has admitted that Barcelona wonderkid Lamine Yamal is currently “better”, but insisted he’s nowhere near his own ceiling yet and is still adapting to life in Spain. The Argentine spoke to Spanish programme El Larguero, opening up on comparisons with the Barça sensation and his early days at the Bernabéu.
Mastantuono, who only arrived this season and is still adapting to European football, didn’t hesitate when asked who is ahead right now. “Who is better today? Lamine is better,” he said bluntly. “He is showing an incredible level. He is in an incredible moment.”
The 17-year-old said he’s still adjusting to the pace and intensity in Spain, hoping his breakthrough will come sooner rather than later: “I just arrived at Real Madrid. I am in an adaptation process that I hope will be fast. I hope I can quickly catch the rhythm of Europe and that it is a long story to tell with many matches.”
Praise for Vinicius, Courtois and Dibu Martínez
Mastantuono also lauded Vinicius Junior, describing the Brazilian as “an incredible person” despite criticism from fans and media. The youngster brushed off the winger’s angry reaction to being subbed during El Clásico, saying the issue was dealt with internally.
“He apologised to Xabi Alonso and everyone. Obviously, his way of leaving was not correct. He recognised it and knows he is important to the team. These are things of football that happen,” he explained.
The teenager also praised Real Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois and compatriot Emiliano “Dibu” Martinez, calling both world-class figures who’ve influenced his development.
“Courtois is the goalkeeper of the best team in the world and responds as such. He will go down in football history for the dedication he puts into training,” he claimed.
On Dibu: “The World Cup he had and how he defends the national team, with that love and dedication, is impressive.”
Messi Still the Best in the World, Says Madrid Talent
Despite being a Real Madrid player, Mastantuono didn’t hesitate to name Lionel Messi as football’s No.1—at least until he retires.
“I am a Real Madrid fan, but the best player and the greatest in the world is Messi, and until he retires, it will be like that,” he insisted.
The youngster, who shares a dressing room with Messi in the Argentina national team setup, described training with the Inter Miami star as a daily lesson.
“He leaves you with your mouth open every time he receives the ball. It is admirable. He continues to surprise us. Being with him is a learning experience every day.”
What It Means for Madrid Going Forward
Mastantuono’s honesty comes at a time when Real Madrid are investing heavily in youth, with Jude Bellingham, Endrick, Güler, Rodrygo and Vinicius set to form the core of the club’s next era. The Argentine is expected to be phased into Xabi Alonso’s squad gradually, though competition for minutes will be fierce.
Meanwhile, Lamine Yamal continues to shine as Barcelona’s biggest talent since Messi, already making waves in La Liga and Europe despite his age.
Both starlets are tipped to define Spanish football for the next decade—only this time, on opposite sides of El Clásico.
