- Mastantuono creates further history with الأرجنتين
- Donned the No.10 in Messi’s absence
- Broke Maradona’s long-standing record
Mastantuono created further history with the Argentine وطني team on Wednesday, as the ريال مدريد youngster wore the iconic No. 10 for the Albiceleste in the absence of Messi. In doing so, the teenager became the youngest player in Argentina history to don the legendary number.
Mastantuono is having an unforgettable 2025 from an individual point of view. After securing his dream move to Real Madrid over the summer, the former ريفر بليت wonderkid is already establishing himself as an integral part of Xabi Alonso’s plans. Back in June, he became the youngest player in Argentina history to make his debut at the age of 17 years and 296 days. Now, after coming on as a second-half substitute in the 1-0 loss to الإكوادور on Wednesday, Mastantuono became the youngest Argentine to wear the No.10 aged 18 years and 27 days. Maradona was the previous youngest, wearing the No.10 for the first time ever in 1979, at the age of 18 years, nine months, and three days.
Argentina head coach Scaloni explained why Mastantuono was handed the No.10, with Messi not taken on the trip to Ecuador in order to hand rest.
“[Thiago] Almada was going to wear the number 10, but he couldn’t start because we preferred not to risk him in this match. So we gave it to Franco.” said Scaloni.
The teenage sensation will be expected to retain his place in the Real Madrid starting XI and make a third consecutive start for the Blancos when they take on ريال سوسيداد at the Anoeta on Saturday.
