Real Madrid manager Xabi Alonso has heaped praise on attackers Rodrygo Goes and teenage sensation Franco Mastantuono after their impressive contributions in Los Blancos’ 3–0 LaLiga victory over Real Oviedo on Sunday night.
The clash at the Estadio Carlos Tartiere saw Madrid field a vibrant attacking trio, with Alonso opting to start Rodrygo and Mastantuono alongside Kylian Mbappé and Arda Güler. The gamble paid off as Madrid dominated proceedings, with Mbappé scoring twice and Vinícius Júnior adding the third to secure all three points in their second win of the new season.
Speaking after the match, Alonso singled out Rodrygo’s tactical sharpness. “He had a good game. In the first half, on that side, he linked up well with Carreras. Mbappé sometimes dropped and so did Güler. He had one-on-one situations and a few shots,” the Madrid boss noted. Rodrygo’s energy and creativity kept Oviedo’s defenders pinned back, even though he did not get on the scoresheet.
Mastantuono, making only his second LaLiga start at 17 years old, also earned Alonso’s admiration. “He had a very good game. In a short time, he has managed to connect with the group and his teammates,” Alonso said. The Argentine prospect, who joined Madrid from River Plate earlier this year, showcased maturity beyond his age with smart passing combinations and pressing intensity.
The victory reinforced Madrid’s attacking depth, with fans and pundits lauding Alonso’s willingness to trust youth while blending them with established stars. Analysts noted that Mastantuono’s link-up play with Vinícius could become a key weapon as the season progresses, while Rodrygo’s versatility provides tactical flexibility across the front line.
Real Madrid’s performance also underlined the team’s early-season intent to reclaim LaLiga supremacy. With Mbappé hitting top form, Vinícius firing, and youngsters like Mastantuono stepping up, Alonso appears to be molding a squad that blends experience, talent, and youthful hunger. The 3–0 result not only kept Madrid perfect after two games but also sent a warning to rivals Barcelona and Atlético.
Madrid will now shift focus to their next LaLiga fixture, where Alonso is expected to rotate the squad further as he continues to integrate Mastantuono and other young talents into a side that already looks formidable. For Rodrygo and Mastantuono, the manager’s public praise is both a confidence boost and a clear sign that their roles in the team’s new era are only just beginning.
