In an exclusive interview with La Gazzetta dello Sport, Mastantuono discussed his career plans, reasons for choosing Fiorentina, and other topics. He stated that Fiorentina's team-building project suited him perfectly, and Mourinho also gave him very relevant advice when he was choosing a loan team. He also said he was looking forward to facing Lautaro in Serie A.

Details often determine everything. Mastantuono arrived at the interview hungry, but he didn't forget to fix his hair one last time. "How do I look?" he asked before answering questions in Spanish.

"I spend an hour a day learning Italian," the Argentine prodigy recounted. "Then I practice it on the training pitch. I understand Grosso when he speaks, but sometimes he speaks too fast..."

He's like that himself—only 19 years old, but his life has already been eventful and intense. He played for River Plate and Real Madrid, and now he's at Fiorentina, where he was welcomed as a star. "When Fiorentina contacted me, I thought about Serie A, a very competitive league I've always aspired to, the club's heritage, and the many Argentine players who have made history here. Everyone speaks very highly of Fiorentina."

Let's talk about the past. How did you feel when you met Batistuta at Fiorentina's centenary celebration?

Extremely moved. We talked about football, this city, the fans, and what it means to play here. I'll take his advice to heart. I'm living at his place now.

What are your expectations for your career in Italy?

I hope to have consistent playing opportunities, improve personally, and help the team achieve its objectives.

Do those objectives include European competitions?

It's not the right time to talk about that yet, but we know our own strength. We're young, talented, and the team is strong. We know that as long as we work hard every day to improve, we can achieve satisfying results. Veterans like De Gea bring experience to the team, and we have passion and the desire to win.

You suffered two consecutive defeats at the start of the Serie A season. Why such a difficult start?

There are many new players in the team, and we still need to settle in and find our balance. However, I have full confidence in the team and in Grosso. I chose Fiorentina also because of him: when he called me, I realized his team-building project was perfect for me.

Did Mourinho also influence your decision to come to Italy?

He's a great coach, and his energy deeply impressed me. When we spoke, I hadn't finalized the Fiorentina move yet, but he gave me very good advice. Given his consideration and Real Madrid's, seeking playing opportunities elsewhere became the best option.

Do you see yourself in Nico Paz's experience?

Nico proved his worth at Como; he's an excellent example. But I came here for Fiorentina's team-building project and also to prove myself in Serie A.

Why did you choose Fiorentina over a team competing in European competitions?

Whether or not to compete in European competitions wasn't my decisive consideration. I prioritize development prospects. Fiorentina strongly supports young players and values quality football, making it the most appropriate place for me to implement my football philosophy.

What are the differences between Serie A and La Liga?

Italian football is more physical and has richer tactical elements, perhaps closer to Argentine football. The higher the difficulty, the more it forces you to improve; the tighter the opponent's marking, the more you have to think and find solutions. That's the only way you can grow.

Are you surprised the video of you playing football on the beach went viral?

A bit surprised. I wasn't doing anything special at the time. I was with friends, I saw kids playing football, and I joined them. For me, it's very normal, like exploring the city, learning its history, and tasting its food. I love pasta and focaccia. My family visited me recently, but I'm already used to living on my own. I left my hometown of Azul when I was thirteen or fourteen years old.

What was it like having your father as your first coach?

It had its joys and sorrows. I was only 10 years old then, and he demanded a lot from me. We argued sometimes. He was a striker, a number nine. But sharing a love of football with him was a wonderful thing.

Tell us about that free-kick goal in the Superclásico.

I still remember the River Plate stadium was packed, which gave me chills. Before my run-up, I told my teammate I was going to curl the ball. When I saw it go into the net, I was ecstatic. It was the best moment of my life.

Messi is your idol. Is there an Argentine player whose style is similar to yours?

Messi is unique, the greatest of all time. It's a great honor to play alongside him for the national team; it's a shame he retired from international football. I admire Di Maria and Dybala greatly. Paulo plays in the same position as me, but comparing myself to these accomplished players is unrealistic. Dybala and I are good friends; we even played padel together in Argentina. I'm looking forward to facing Inter Milan led by Lautaro.

Do you hope for an immediate call-up to the Argentine national team?

The Argentine national team jersey is the most glorious in the world, and of course, I hope to wear it again soon. But to do that, I must train hard and perform well.

What are your greatest strengths and most marked weaknesses?

I'm courageous in going forward and challenging opponents, and I have a strong mentality. But I still have many areas to improve, and finishing efficiency in front of goal is one of them. I know my potential, and I know I can become an excellent player. Every day, I approach it with passion and love.

Football or guitar—which do you prefer?

I'm passionate about music, especially rock. Playing guitar brings me joy, even though I'm not very good at it. Music is integrated into my life; it helps me relax and brings me happiness.

During your time at Real Madrid, which player impressed you the most?

Mbappé is a phenomenal player; Bellingham is incredibly strong and gave me lots of advice; Brahim's skills are incredible. I played 35 matches for Real Madrid, which is quite a lot for my age. That year in Europe was full of changes, and overall, it was a very valuable experience.

Who are the best strikers in Serie A?

Kean and Beto in our team. Mateo has excellent heading ability and needs good service from his teammates. I hope to score goals to entertain the fans and also create scoring opportunities for my teammates.

Traduit par IA.

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