18-Year-Old Real Madrid Star Mastantono Scores in Champions League, Responds to Criticism: “I’m Not Messi, Nor a Bust!”

Since joining Real Madrid, 18-year-old Argentine Franco Mastantono has been under intense scrutiny. Some hailed him as the “new Messi,” while others labeled him the “worst signing.”

But in a 6-1 Champions League thrashing of Monaco, Mastantono finally made his mark—scoring his first Champions League goal and speaking out against critics: “I don’t think I’m Messi, nor the worst signing. I just try to be the strongest version of myself.”

In the 51st minute, he received a through ball from Vinicius Jr. and calmly finished with his left foot, precise and confident. At 18 years and 159 days old, he became the second youngest Argentine to score in the Champions League, only behind Messi (18 years, 131 days), and the third youngest scorer in Real Madrid’s history, after Endrick and Raúl.

Mastantono admitted adapting from River Plate in Argentina to the bright lights of the Bernabéu has been challenging, but he remains positive: “I’ve never been negative; I’ve always been happy and eager to improve.” He also defended teammate Bellingham, praising his dedication at training.

This season, Mastantono has played 11 La Liga matches with 1 goal, mostly as a rotation player in the right-inside or number 10 role. With a packed schedule ahead, more opportunities will come—and his Champions League goal has secured him trust and space to grow.