A controversial debut for new signing Franco Mastantuono could see Los Blancos’ hard-fought victory overturned due to an alleged administrative error, casting a shadow over their season opener.
Real Madrid’s triumphant La Liga debut under new manager Xabi Alonso is under threat, not from a rival’s goal, but from a potential paperwork violation. The club’s 1-0 victory over Osasuna, secured by a contentious Kylian Mbappé penalty, could be overturned after an allegation of “improper alignment” concerning teenage debutant Franco Mastantuono.
The controversy stems from the jersey number worn by the 18-year-old Argentine, who was signed from River Plate for €45 million just this month. When Mastantuono came off the bench for his debut in the 65th minute, he did so wearing the No. 30 shirt—a number typically reserved for players registered with the club’s reserve team.
According to Miguel Galan, a lawyer and president of a coaches’ association (CENAFE), this was no simple wardrobe choice. He argues it constitutes an “incorrect line-up,” suggesting Real Madrid may have registered Mastantuono as a reserve player to gain a financial advantage, freeing up a valuable spot in their main squad for Financial Fair Play (FFP) purposes.
“As long as player Mastantuono doesn’t train or participate in matches with the reserve team, there is a substantial risk that his lineup will be challenged,” Galan pointed out, warning of a “possible violation of the regulations.”
The clock is now ticking for Osasuna, who have 24 hours to formally lodge a complaint over the alleged rule breach. Reports from Spanish outlet COPE suggest the Pamplona-based club is unlikely to appeal. However, the ruling sets a dangerous precedent for Real Madrid.
If the registration is deemed improper, every future opponent could challenge Mastantuono’s eligibility the moment he steps onto the pitch, leaving any match he plays in vulnerable to being overturned by administrative decision—a scenario that could turn a minor jersey number into a major season-long headache for the Spanish giants.
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