Real Madrid have opened a new chapter in their rich history with the arrival of Xabi Alonso as manager, and one of the first decisions to capture the attention of fans is the allocation of the iconic number 10 shirt, which was left vacant following the departure of Luka Modric at the conclusion of the 2025 Club World Cup. In a recent press conference, Alonso confirmed that young Argentinian talent Franco Mastantuono will be the new wearer of this legendary number, stating: “I think he has all the qualities of a superstar and he deserves that shirt.” This decision not only marks the beginning of a new era under the Basque coach, but also reflects his commitment to youth and the potential to consolidate a winning project in the long term.

The selection of Mastantuono, a 17-year-old attacking midfielder from River Plate, has caused a huge stir among Real Madrid fans. The young Argentine, considered one of the most promising players in South American football, arrived at Real Madrid after excelling at the Club World Cup, where his vision, refined technique, and ability to unbalance left an indelible impression. According to Diario Olé, Alonso personally informed Mastantuono of his intention to position him as a “classic number 10,” a role reminiscent of historic club figures such as Ferenc Puskás, Zinedine Zidane, and Modric himself. This decision underscores the coach’s confidence in the youngster’s ability to assume the responsibility of a number that carries with it immense pressure and expectation.

The 2025-2026 season represents a turning point for Real Madrid, which is looking to bounce back after a year without major trophies under Carlo Ancelotti. The arrival of Alonso, who revolutionized Bayer Leverkusen with his dynamic and competitive football, has brought with it a wave of optimism. His experience as a player at the club, where he made 236 appearances and won six titles, including his tenth European Cup, gives him unique authority in the dressing room. However, his decision to award the number 10 shirt to a player as young as Mastantuono has generated both enthusiasm and debate. While some see this choice as a sign of boldness and foresight, others question whether the Argentine is ready to bear the weight of such an iconic number.

The context of this decision is deeply tied to Alonso’s philosophy, as he has demonstrated his ability to develop young talent at Leverkusen. In his presentation as Real Madrid manager on May 26, 2025, Alonso emphasized the importance of tactical flexibility and communication with players to maximize their qualities. In this sense, the selection of Mastantuono as number 10 is not only a recognition of his talent, but also a statement of intent regarding the style of play the coach wants to implement: ambitious, creative football with a focus on differential players. According to Marca, Alonso plans to build his starting eleven around figures such as Vinicius Jr., Kylian Mbappé, and Jude Bellingham, with Mastantuono as the creative link in midfield.

The transition to this new era is not without its challenges. Real Madrid will face the Club World Cup with a packed schedule and a squad that blends experience with recent additions like Dean Huijsen and Trent Alexander-Arnold. The departure of veterans like Modric and the need to manage a deep squad, with up to 34 players at the tournament, represent a logistical and tactical challenge for Alonso. Furthermore, the potential departure of players like Rodrygo, whose role could be reduced by the emergence of Mastantuono, adds another layer of complexity. However, Alonso’s confidence in the young Argentine suggests that the coach sees him not only as an emerging talent, but also as a fundamental pillar for the club’s future.

The Madrid fans, known for their demanding nature, eagerly await Mastantuono’s first steps in the number 10 shirt. Comparisons with legends of the past are inevitable, but the young Argentine appears to have the character and talent to take on the challenge. On social media, fans have expressed a mixture of excitement and caution, aware that the success of this project will depend as much on individual talent as on Alonso’s ability to unify the team around a common vision. As Real Madrid prepares for its Club World Cup debut on July 18, all eyes will be on Mastantuono and how his new coach molds a team that aims to regain its place at the top of world football.

The legacy of the number 10 shirt at Real Madrid is immense, and Alonso’s decision to entrust Mastantuono with his trust in a bright future. With the backing of the club and the enthusiasm of the fans, the young Argentine has the opportunity to write his own chapter in Real Madrid history. Only time will tell if he’s up to the challenge, but for now, Alonso’s message is clear: Mastantuono is the new face of Real Madrid.