Overview
- Real Madrid’s confirmed lineup for Sunday at Valencia lists Franco Mastantuono on the bench, ending expectations he would start.
- Álvaro Arbeloa publicly praised the winger’s potential, versatility and work rate in his pre-match remarks, urging time for his adaptation.
- Rodrygo was left out of the squad with hamstring tendinitis, while Vinicius Junior is suspended and Jude Bellingham remains injured, narrowing attacking options.
- Since Arbeloa’s appointment in January, Mastantuono has played in all six matches, starting five and scoring twice in that span.
- Amid fan criticism over modest totals of 3 goals and 1 assist in 23 appearances, reporting says the club has rejected loan speculation and considers him part of this season’s plans.