Since joining Real Madrid, Franco Mastantuono has often been compared to Lamine Yamal, as both have similar playing styles. Yamal plays for Barcelona, which is Madrid’s biggest rival. Some also see a resemblance to Lionel Messi, given that Mastantuono is left-footed like the Inter Miami player.
These comparisons intensified during Argentina’s World Cup qualifying match against Ecuador, where Mastantuono donned the famous No. 10 jersey that was left vacant by Messi, who was absent for the game.
In a media interaction, Leonardo Balerdi, the captain of Olympique de Marseille and Mastantuono’s teammate on the Argentina national team, shared his views on the comparisons. He stressed that Messi is unique and that no one else can replicate his talent.
“Franco is phenomenal. He’s a threat whenever he’s near the ball, and when he cuts inside, he can be very effective. He’s a fantastic player, and I wish him nothing but success,” said Balerdi, who played in Marseille’s recent Champions League loss to Real Madrid.
Franco Mastantuono of Real Madrid during the game against Olympique de Marseille. (Angel Martinez/Getty Images)
“He must carve out his own career, concentrate on himself, and remain composed, as he has the ability to achieve great things. Trying to imitate Messi isn’t the way—there’s only one Messi, and comparisons will always fall short,” he added.
Scaloni explains Mastantuono wearing Messi’s No.10
After Argentina’s loss to Ecuador, Lionel Scaloni explained why Mastantuono wore the iconic No. 10 jersey typically associated with Messi.
“Initially, Thiago Almada was meant to wear it, but since he couldn’t play, we decided to give it to Franco,” Scaloni said, adding that they wanted to avoid risking Almada in that match.
Despite the ongoing comparisons, Mastantuono and Messi have played together very little. They first took the field together during a World Cup qualifier in June, sharing just 11 minutes in a 1-0 victory over Chile. Both were substitutes in that match. They appeared again in the final qualifier against Venezuela, starting together, but Mastantuono was subbed off in the 63rd minute.