Mastantuono: ‘Fiorentina perfect for me, Real Madrid advice and following Batistuta’
Franco Mastantuono explains why he realised Fiorentina was ‘perfect’ to flourish on loan from Real Madrid, Jose Mourinho’s advice, and admiring Paulo Dybala and Gabriel Batistuta.
The Argentina international was a sensation when Real Madrid invested €45m to buy him from River Plate in 2025, but with very little opportunity for regular playing time, it was decided to send him out on loan.
There were several alternative clubs interested in using the teenager, but he picked Fiorentina.
Mastantuono chose Fiorentina to flourish
“I thought about Serie A, a competitive league that has always attracted me, the importance of the club and the many Argentines who wrote history here,” Mastantuono told La Gazzetta dello Sport.
“Everyone I talked to about Florence spoke so highly of the city too.”
Thanks to the club’s Centenary celebrations, Mastantuono got to meet Fiorentina and Argentina legend Batistuta straight away.
“It was wonderful, we talked about football, the city, the fans, what it means to play here. Florence is his home, so I’ll treasure his advice.”
Unlike some of the clubs who had stepped forward with an offer, Fiorentina are not participating in European competition this season.
“It’s not the right time to talk about Europe. This is a strong side, we have experience with players like David De Gea, enthusiasm and hunger. However, there are many new players and it takes time to find the right balance.
“I chose Fiorentina also for the coach. As soon as Fabio Grosso called, I understood that his project was perfect for me.”
There was also a push from current Real Madrid manager Mourinho, who knows Serie A very well.
“He is a great coach with such energy. I hadn’t yet chosen Florence when we spoke, but he did give me advice, it was decided with him and Real Madrid that going on loan to play consistently was the best choice,” continued Mastantuono.
“Europe was not crucial for my decision, I gave my priority to the prospects. Fiorentina focus on youth and quality, so it’s the best place to express my idea of football.
There is a long history of Argentina internationals flourishing in Serie A and Mastantuono hopes to follow in those footsteps.
“Lionel Messi is the best, so it was a privilege to play alongside him, but also sad that he has retired from international duty. I admire Angel Di Maria and Paulo Dybala, especially as Dybala plays in my position, but it’s absurd to compare with players who had such extraordinary careers.
“I get along well with Dybala, we even played Padel in Argentina. I can’t wait to face Lautaro Martinez and Inter next. The Argentina jersey is the best and I hope to get back to wearing it soon, but to make that happen, I need to work hard and play regularly.”
Mastantuono was asked where he needs to improve and his greatest strengths as a player.
“I push forward, attack the opponents and show character, but I need to be more efficient in front of goal. I know my potential, that I can become a great player, and every day I put in passion and love.
“I want to entertain the fans by scoring goals and putting in assists for my teammates. I know Mateo Pellegrino is so good in the air, he needs assists.”
