Mastantuono wins Florence and eyes Messi's legacy, Argentina

Fiorentina Mastantuono arrived in Florence amid a cheering crowd, with a 2000s rocker look, and in just one month he has won the hearts of the Viola; now his name is linked to that of Messi, already called up by Scaloni for Argentina's last match on September 30.

Franco Mastantuono landed in Florence with a guitar among his luggage from Madrid, dressed like a rock singer of the early 2000s. In just one month he won over the Viola bench, becoming the technical and character reference point of the team. The 2007‑born is already considered the core of the club's offensive schemes.

The Argentine talent in Serie A

The young Argentine talent has already written pages in the Viola's history, becoming the youngest footballer to score a hat‑trick in Serie A. Moreover, he placed himself on the podium of the league's best dribblers, confirming his ability to create danger in the attacking zone.

His performances convinced Lionel Scaloni to recall him to the National team, nine months after the last call‑up. For the next match, the Selección is preparing to face Bolivia at the Monumental on September 30, at 22:00 Italian time. The game will be Lionel Messi's last in the Argentina shirt.

Towards the Selección and the future

In the past, former Argentine footballer Matias Almeyda had prophesied: “After Maradona came Messi, after Messi there will be Mastantuono”. The words, heavy with weight, now echo in the pressure that bears on the young 2007‑born.

Some Atlantic newspapers speculate that the former River Plate could welcome the legendary Diez, in a possible handover already scheduled for Tuesday, in Messi's final match with the Selección. A transfer of such magnitude would represent a new chapter for Argentine football.

For Mastantuono, the opportunity to shine in a historic moment could mark the beginning of a new era, consolidating his role both in Florence and in Argentina.