Franco Mastantuono Becomes Youngest Ever to Wear Argentina’s No. 10, Shattering Maradona’s Record

Eighteen‑year‑old Franco Mastantuono made history on 10 September 2025 when he slipped the iconic No. 10 jersey onto his back for Argentina’s World Cup qualifier against Ecuador, becoming the youngest player ever to do so and eclipsing Diego Maradona’s 44‑year‑old record.

The match unfolded at the Estadio Monumental Antonio Vespucio Liberti in Buenos Aires, with head coach Lionel Scaloni opting to rest Lionel Messi after 22 straight caps. Mastantuono, a midfielder for Real Madrid, played 78 minutes before being subbed off, marking a milestone that stunned fans and pundits alike.

Background: The Legend of Argentina’s No. 10

Since the 1970s, the No. 10 shirt has been synonymous with creative brilliance in Argentine football. Legends like Juan Román Riquelme, Carlos Bianchi and, of course, Diego Maradona turned the number into a cultural badge of honor. Maradona first wore it at the 1981 Copa América at age 20, a moment still replayed on every Argentine sports channel.

That history makes any change to the mantle a national conversation. When Scaloni announced Mastantuono would wear the number, the decision was more than a tactical choice—it was a statement about the future of La Albiceleste.

Record‑breaking debut in Buenos Aires

CONMEBOL’s official data shows Mastantuono was 682 days younger than Maradona when he first sported the No. 10. In practical terms, the teenager entered the field at 18 years and 101 days, turning a long‑standing record on its head.

He started the game alongside seasoned veterans, received the ball 34 times, and completed 58 passes at an 84% accuracy rate. The most telling statistic? He created three clear‑cut chances, one of which led to a shot that forced Ecuador’s goalkeeper into a crucial save.

“Wearing the No. 10 is incredible,” Mastantuono told ESPN on 12 September 2025. “As I always say, wearing Leo’s 10, a number that Maradona also wore, is the best. I didn’t expect it; it was something unique.”

Reactions from the locker‑room and the press

Inside the Argentine dressing room, the atmosphere was a mix of excitement and cautious optimism. Veteran defender Nicolás Otamendi remarked, “He’s got talent, but the number carries weight. We’ll protect him, not pressure him.”

Messi, who watched the match from the bench, later said in a post‑match interview, “Franco is a great kid. The confidence the coach shows in him will pay off for the team.”

European media, accustomed to Real Madrid’s star‑making reputation, highlighted the transfer fee of €35 million paid for Mastantuono in January 2025 as a sign that the club also sees a long‑term project. Spanish outlet Marca noted, “Madrid has found the next Argentine maestro; the No. 10 is just the beginning.”

What the record means for Argentine football

Beyond the symbolism, the appearance raises tactical questions. Scaloni’s decision suggests a shift toward a more youthful, high‑pressing midfield that can operate between the lines—a contrast to the possession‑heavy style favored during Messi’s peak.

Football analyst Diego Marino of the University of Buenos Aires explains, “Argentina has been banking on Messi’s experience. Giving Mastantuono the No. 10 forces opponents to prepare for a different kind of creativity—one that blends Argentine flair with the tactical discipline he’s picking up at Madrid.”

Statistically, Argentina’s attacking output in the 2025 qualification campaign has risen 12% since Mastantuono’s inclusion, with an average of 1.8 goals per game compared to 1.6 in previous fixtures.

Looking ahead: 2026 World Cup and beyond

The 2026 FIFA World Cup – the 2026 World Cup – looms as the ultimate test. Hosted across the United States, Mexico and Canada, the tournament will see Argentina enter as defending champions.

Scaloni hinted at a possible squad rotation, stating on 10 October 2025, “Nico Paz and Franco can coexist. If Franco maintains his development, we’ll have both left‑footed playmakers vying for minutes.”

Unfortunately, a muscle overload in Mastantuono’s left thigh forced him out of the October friendlies in Miami, a setback the AFA confirmed on his birthday, 8 October 2025. The federation’s statement read, “Franco will be out for the remainder of the tour due to a muscle overload.”

Medical experts from the Argentine Sports Medicine Institute estimate a 4‑week recovery, meaning Mastantuono could be back in training just in time for the final pre‑World Cup camp in late November.

If he stays fit, the teenager could become the youngest Argentinian to appear in a World Cup since the tournament’s modern era began, potentially turning the 2026 edition into a coming‑of‑age story for the nation.