Franco Mastantuono’s long-awaited debut for Real Madrid was supposed to be a celebration.
The 18-year-old former River Plate talent came onto the pitch at the Santiago Bernabeu and immediately impressed, earning a standing ovation from the home crowd.
Supporters even chanted his name before he stepped onto the field, highlighting the excitement around a player the club signed for €60 million from the Argentinian club.
So what’s the problem?
But what should have been a perfect night has taken an unexpected turn off the pitch. Mastantuono’s first name, Franco, has sparked controversy because of its association with Spain’s former dictator.
Fans who wanted to buy his shirt with “Franco” printed on the back discovered that Real Madrid’s official store does not allow it.
Vaya, tendré que comprársela al chino @realmadrid
Qué vergüenza de club. pic.twitter.com/TzqyaRl46n
— • (@yipikayei7) August 21, 2025
The club’s personalisation system automatically blocks the name, displaying the message: “Sorry. Our personalisation policy does not allow the use of this name.”
Interestingly, Mastantuono plays with his surname on his shirt, both at Madrid and previously in Argentina. Still, the restriction has surprised many fans, especially as he is seen as one of the club’s future stars.
Debate over sensitivity of the name
The filtering system has added fuel to the debate. While “Franco” is blocked, other controversial names and phrases remain available.
For example, “Mussolini” and “Stalin” can be entered without issue, though “Hitler” is vetoed.
Hola @realmadrid según vuestras políticas no se permite poner “Franco” en una camiseta en vuestra Web.
Sin embargo otros nombres como “stalin” si está permitido, en que se basa vuestra política?
Espero que rectifiquéis y que dejéis de intentar no llamar a alguien por su nombre. pic.twitter.com/5OfctSjLRV
— UnamaRENACIDO🇪🇸 (@UnamaRenacidoo) August 21, 2025
Even more surprisingly, offensive slogans like “Gora ETA” pass through the system unchecked. Meanwhile, names of rival players such as “Messi” or “Lamine Yamal” are also blocked.
This has left supporters divided. Some argue that chanting “Franco” inside a Spanish stadium is disrespectful, given the painful history of the Civil War and dictatorship.
Others believe the controversy is unnecessary, stressing that it is simply the player’s first name and easier to sing than Mastantuono.