Instagram nostalgia fuels River loan hopes for Mastantuono
Franco Mastantuono posted a childhood photo on Instagram wearing a River shirt, captioned "La escuelita en familia", reigniting speculation that the former River player could return on loan. The post, shared from his personal account, has set Núñez supporters buzzing about a possible comeback after Real Madrid under José Mourinho left him out of recent plans.
The image shows Mastantuono as a youngster in the iconic River jersey, a visual that has sparked hope among fans in the Núñez neighbourhood. They recall his early ties to the club and wonder if a loan move could materialise now that he is not in Real Madrid's immediate plans.
Mastantuono featured as a starter in the friendly against Leganés, yet he was omitted from the squad for the Merengue's upcoming match against Fiorentina in Austria. This omission fuels doubts about his chances of returning to River, as the Spanish side appears to be considering a loan elsewhere in Europe.
European sources suggest Real Madrid intends to loan the player to a club in a league similar to LaLiga, but the target does not seem to be River. Several clubs have reportedly expressed interest to Florentino Pérez, indicating that a move to another Old Continent team is more likely.
Despite the slim odds, Núñez supporters refuse to give up hope. They acknowledge the situation is practically impossible, yet Mastantuono's desire for a swift comeback keeps a small flame of optimism alive.
River Plate, aiming for a creative, destabilising addition as their eighth reinforcement, would find Mastantuono's name a bright option. However, Real Madrid's loan strategy would require a waiting period to prevent rival clubs from closing the deal, a hurdle the River hierarchy appears ready to navigate.
Since leaving the Millonario for Spain, Mastantuono began strongly under Xabi Alonso, scoring three goals in 35 appearances. Over time, his involvement dwindled, and he fell out of favour, receiving fewer starts and bench opportunities.
Overall, Mastantuono debuted for River under Martín Demichelis, amassing 64 matches, ten goals and seven assists. His sole trophy with the club is the 2023 Argentine Supercopa won against Estudiantes, and he is remembered for a spectacular free‑kick goal versus Boca Juniors in a 2‑1 victory at the Monumental.
A recent photo from the Merengue friendly shows Mastantuono on the pitch, underscoring the lingering connection between the player and the clubs involved.