Despite his early-season impact, Franco Mastantuono was left out of his first ‘Clasico’. Endrick’s absence was less surprising, as he remains uncapped since Xabi Alonso’s arrival at Real Madrid.
Amidst Real Madrid’s joy in ‘El Clasico’, somewhat overshadowed by Vinicius’ reaction to being substituted, two other figures were unable to savour the victory as much as they would have liked, from on the pitch.
This has been a recurring theme recently. In the case of Endrick (19), another matchday passes without him making his debut under Xabi Alonso. His departure in January seems almost certain if he wishes to play in the 2026 World Cup with Brazil. Within the Madrid squad, he is currently the seventh-choice forward, perhaps even eighth after Camavinga’s emergence as a makeshift right-winger.
Against Barca, he again watched from the bench as the manager called upon Rodrygo, Brahim, and Gonzalo Garcia as substitutes.
His last appearance in a Madrid shirt was back on 18th May, when he suffered an injury against Sevilla. Subsequently, he underwent rehabilitation, suffered a relapse while training at the Club World Cup, and has since disappeared from the frame.
Mastantuono, fading influence
The Argentine’s situation is a classic case of failing to adapt amidst fierce competition. It’s not as if he hasn’t had opportunities. Since his arrival, he has featured in 11 matches (eight in La Liga and three in the Champions League), starting eight. However, he has only repaid that faith with one goal and one penalty won.
His impact on the game has waned as Brahim’s and Rodrygo’s influence has grown. This has resulted in him playing just seven minutes against Juventus and being left on the bench against Barcelona in what could have been his first ‘Clasico’.
At just 18 years old and newly arrived, Xabi will surely give him more opportunities, but he must significantly improve his performances if he wants to enjoy regular starts and minutes again.
Madrid’s next fixture is against Valencia next Saturday.
