Real Madrid coach Xabi Alonso praises Mastantuono and trivializes the choice of Messi’s player as the best in the world

Real Madrid coach Xabi Alonso has praised the maturity of teen newcomer Franco Mastantuono and the choice of the player for the former Barcelona -Superster Lionel Messi traced as the world’s best player.

The 18-year-old Mastantuono signed a six-year-old deal with Madrid and said during his introduction last week that he regards his fellow countryman Messi as the best in the world.

«It makes sense for Messi to be his favorite player,» said Alonso Monday. «He comes from Argentina and he is left, so it’s no surprise to me.»

Mastantuono’s praise for a player from Madrid’s arch rival surprised many in Spain and attracted most headlines after his introductory press conference. Some fans of Madrid were not happy with the teenagers’ comments.

Messi dueled for years with Cristiano Ronaldo when he played for Barcelona and Ronaldo – also by many considered by the best in the world – played for Madrid. Now Ronaldo plays for Al-Nassr in Saudi Arabia, while Messi is in the United States at Inter Miami.

Madrid already reached a deal to sign Mastantuono, but had to wait until the former River plain player turned 18. The club reportedly paid 45 million euros ($ 52.5 million) to the transfer.

«The first time I spoke to Mastantuono, I was struck by his personality,» said the New Madrid coach. «He was 17 at the time, and he was very sure of himself. He didn’t seem to be worried at all about making the leap to Real Madrid. That maturity and quality has been clear since he arrived. I know he will settle quickly, both on the field and in the dressing room.»

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Alonso added that Mastantuono could see playing time on Tuesday in the La Liga match of the team against Osasuna.

«He will bring us quality and energy, he is very dedicated,» said the coach. «He has a great drive from a defensive perspective. In the small time I spent with him, I can see that Argentinian Spirit, he is a warrior, but he also has quality. He is a combative player and he has a beautiful left foot, both of set pieces and in the last pass. He has a beautiful technique and he is very young.