Kempes Urges Mastantuono to Embrace Boldness at Real Madrid

Last summer, Mastantuono arrived in Madrid with significant expectations and a hefty transfer fee exceeding €60 million from River Plate. The club viewed him as a pivotal player for their future success. However, after a promising start in La Liga, injury troubles have hindered his performance in recent months, raising concerns about his ability to adapt to the high demands of arguably the world’s most prestigious football club.

Mario Kempes, a celebrated World Cup winner and one of Argentina’s most revered players, provided a candid assessment of Mastantuono’s current situation. In a recent interview, the 71-year-old highlighted that the patience often afforded to young talents in South America is notably absent at Real Madrid.

“It’s not easy, it’s not River, it’s not Boca… it’s Real Madrid,” Kempes remarked. “At Real Madrid, you must win even in training. Mastantuono needs to be a bit bolder and more courageous.”

Moreover, Kempes warned that if the young midfielder fails to leverage the talent that initially attracted Madrid, his European career could be short-lived. “They signed him from River because they recognized his potential, but currently, that potential is not benefiting him. If he doesn’t harness it, he won’t last long here.”

In a somewhat challenging perspective for Madrid supporters, Kempes pointed to their rival, Barcelona, as a model for how a young player should confront the pressures of elite Spanish football. He referenced Barcelona’s Yamal as an example of the audacity that Mastantuono currently lacks, connecting that fearless approach to the necessity of outworking the established ‘Galacticos’ in the squad.

Kempes encouraged Mastantuono to rediscover the confidence he exhibited at River Plate, asserting that until he accumulates a comparable tally of goals and accolades to illustrious teammates like Mbappé and Vinicius Junior, his contributions must come through relentless effort and risk-taking.

“He must become bolder, emulate what he did at River—shoot from outside the box, take on defenders… Lamine Yamal showcases that spirit; he may lose the ball, but he constantly demands it, challenges defenders, and shoots. Mastantuono must sacrifice himself more than Mbappé, Vinicius, or anyone else, even Rodrygo.”

Kempes also addressed the psychological challenges accompanying Mastantuono’s transition. Moving from being the standout player at River Plate to merely another prospect among a roster of stars can be jarring. He dismissed the notion that mere “mental sharpness” suffices, emphasizing that it must translate into concrete performances on the pitch.

He cautioned Mastantuono against becoming a passive player who relies on mere effort without delivering results. “Mentally, you have to demonstrate your capabilities on the field, not just claim you’re mentally sharp,” Kempes asserted. “People will appreciate your effort and determination, but you need to be a leading figure, not just in certain instances. Believe in your potential as a star, but remain grounded.”

Although the signing was made with a long-term vision, Mastantuono’s recent regression has raised concerns. However, he recently addressed these issues, stating: “Since childhood, people have speculated about my football; I’ve been labeled everything from the ‘new Messi’ to the ‘worst signing of Real Madrid.’ I do not consider myself Messi, nor do I view myself as the club’s worst acquisition. I am committed to becoming my best version, which I know I can achieve.”

As the season’s critical phase approaches, coach Álvaro Arbeloa will need his entire squad performing at their best. A revitalized and daring Mastantuono, willing to take risks and outwork those around him, could yet prove to be the key player they envisioned when they invested heavily in his talent.