Real Madrid secured a 2-1 win against local rivals Rayo Vallecano in La Liga this weekend. However, their performance was not entirely convincing.
Despite the win, which came after a poor showing against Benfica in the Champions League, the team looked shaky. They were lucky to clinch the victory thanks to a late penalty from Kylian Mbappe.
Several players at Real Madrid have been underperforming. Franco Mastantuono, despite being young and eager to improve, seems unprepared for the first team. The club opted for Mastantuono as a right winger over Endrick, a decision they may now regret, as Endrick appears better suited for senior football.
Mastantuono worked hard in the match against Rayo Vallecano, but his efforts did not yield positive results. He did not create any chances, complete any dribbles, and was among the least effective passers on the team before being substituted in the 59th minute, after which Real Madrid showed improvement.
Fans are likely frustrated with Mastantuono’s tendency to pass backwards and dribble sideways. His lack of direct play hampers the attack, as he struggles to beat defenders and avoids taking risks while passing. Real Madrid needs players with confidence and physicality in the attack, and Mastantuono has not demonstrated these qualities on the wings. His backward passing contributes to the issues facing the team’s forward line.