Franco Mastantuono credits new Real Madrid boss Alvaro Arbeloa for return to form

The 18-year-old arrived at Real Madrid from River Plate in August for 45 million euros and was quickly trusted by former coach Xabi Alonso. Mastantuono featured early in the season, often starting on the right, but his role reduced after Jude Bellingham returned from injury and Mastantuono later struggled with a sports hernia issue. His minutes and form dipped as a result.

Before Arbeloa's appointment two weeks ago, Mastantuono had started just once in his previous 10 available matches, a Copa del Rey tie against Talavera de la Reina.

That has changed quickly under the new manager. Arbeloa has started Mastantuono in three of his four matches in charge, with the youngster also making a 45-minute appearance off the bench against Levante.

Mastantuono has repaid that faith with goals against Albacete and AS Monaco, taking his tally to three goals for the season.

Speaking in an interview, Mastantuono made it clear how important Arbeloa's backing has been.

"Alvaro and all of his staff have shown me a lot of trust, and that is the most important thing for a player," he said. "They believe in me, and that gives me the freedom to play my game."

He also acknowledged the role Alonso played in bringing him to the club.

"I'm grateful to Xabi and his staff for trusting me to come here," Mastantuono added. "But Alvaro is helping us a lot now, and I believe he will help us achieve our objectives."