Real Madrid scrap exit plan after teenager wins over Mourinho in pre-season

Real Madrid have made a significant change to their plans for Franco Mastantuono after the Argentine teenager impressed Jose Mourinho during pre-season preparations.

According to MARCA, the Spanish giants are no longer considering parting ways with the highly-rated youngster, who has made a strong early impression in pre-season training. 

Just days after reports suggested the club was prepared to sanction a loan move, Real Madrid now see Mastantuono as a player capable of earning his place in Mourinho’s squad in the 2026/27 season.

Mourinho’s faith changes Real Madrid’s plans

Earlier this summer, Real Madrid were open to sending Mastantuono out on loan to accelerate his development, although any temporary move would have excluded a purchase option.

That plan has now been shelved.

Real Madrid scrap exit plan after

The report states that Mastantuono has been one of the biggest positive surprises of pre-season, convincing Mourinho that he deserves an opportunity to compete for minutes during the upcoming campaign.

While the Portuguese coach certainly has several options within the roster, the Argentine has strengthened his position within the group. 

Right now, Real Madrid’s objective is no longer to find the teenager a temporary destination. 

Instead, Mourinho wants to help the youngster settle quickly, build confidence and gradually adapt to the demands of playing for one of the biggest clubs in world football.

Real Madrid patient with Mastantuono’s development

Despite their change of plans, the club remain fully aware that adapting to European football is rarely straightforward, particularly for young players arriving directly from South America.

Real Madrid have scrapped Mastantuono’s loan proposal. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)

That is why the coaching staff intend to manage Mastantuono’s progress carefully rather than placing unnecessary pressure on him during his first season in Spain.

As such, a loan move has not disappeared as a long-term possibility if circumstances change later in the campaign, but Real Madrid have no intention of selling Franco Mastantuono. 

The club views him as an important part of their future and believes patience will be crucial in unlocking his full potential.

On that note, interest from clubs in Serie A and the Premier League has been noted internally, yet Madrid are not entertaining permanent offers.