During the last European transfer market, there was a possibility that Franco Mastantuono and Claudio Echeverri would temporarily return to River to gain minutes and regain prominence. However, the option was ultimately ruled out: both will continue their careers in European football.
Mastantuono, whose rights belong to Real Madrid, was loaned to Fiorentina, while Echeverri remains linked to Manchester City. Given this scenario, River had to look for other options to strengthen their squad.
Demichelis spoke about the future of Mastantuono and Echeverri
The one who analyzed the situation of both was Martín Demichelis, current coach of RB Leipzig and the coach who had both players during their early steps in River's professional squad.
The coach explained that Echeverri and Mastantuono's experiences were different during their time in Núñez. “They were two different cases,” Demichelis explained as he began his analysis.
Regarding Echeverri, he recalled that his regular presence in the Argentine youth national team call-ups made it difficult for him to work with him daily. “He was training with the National Team from Monday to Thursday, came on Fridays, and played in Reserve, so I couldn't have him,” the coach pointed out.
Over time, the bond between them allowed the player to gradually adapt to the demands of professional football. “I talked to him about it, he understood it, he improved, and showed he could keep up the pace,” Demichelis stated.
What Demichelis said about Mastantuono
The case of Mastantuono was different. Demichelis mentioned that he had known the midfielder since November and that initially the coaching staff planned to carefully manage his physical loads due to his young age.
However, the young player quickly demonstrated that he could compete at the highest level. “With Franco, something different happened. The idea was to manage the loads with them, but Mastantuono was always, day by day, one of the kids who performed the best physically,” he highlighted.
Demichelis wants them to stay in Europe
Despite rumors about a possible return to River, Demichelis believed that both Mastantuono and Echeverri are ready to face the European challenge. “Today I wish them not to come back, because I have no doubt that they are prepared to perform,” the coach affirmed.
