Alonso Speaks Out After Mastantuono Picks Messi as Best Player

Real Madrid manager, Xabi Alonso has commented on the recent statement by new signing Franco Mastantuono, who named Lionel Messi as the best player globally.

During his unveiling on Monday, Mastantuono was asked about his football role models. The Argentine teenager praised several stars and acknowledged the talent at his new club, including England’s Jude Bellingham. When asked to name the best player in the world, Mastantuono quickly chose his compatriot Messi, saying, “For me, it’s Messi. I’m Argentine, and for me, he’s the best.”

Ahead of Real Madrid’s season opener against Osasuna, Alonso was asked if he planned to challenge the youngster’s choice. The Spaniard dismissed the idea, saying in an interview with All About Argentina:

“Recommendation for what? To tell him who his favourite player should be? No. I understand why his favourite player is Lionel Messi. Being Argentine and left-footed, it makes perfect sense.”

Interestingly, Messi and Mastantuono have only played together briefly — a mere six minutes during Argentina’s 1-0 win over Chile in FIFA World Cup qualifiers earlier this year.