Trezeguet: the “model Nico Paz should follow” for Mastantuono and the “final crowning achievement” Cristiano would complete by winning the World Cup
David Trezeguet, a veteran of three World Cups and now River Plate’s institutional relations chief, shared his views on the upcoming tournament, naming Portugal as one of his top contenders. Speaking to DSports, the former France striker said Portugal’s strong squad, solid structure and experienced coach make it a serious candidate to go far. He also suggested that a title for Portugal would be the ideal ending to Cristiano Ronaldo’s remarkable career. Trezeguet, who won the 1998 World Cup with France and later played in the 2002 and 2006 editions, said the Portuguese side combines belief, identity and quality across the pitch, with players capable of making an impact in defense and midfield.
Trezeguet’s praise for Portugal was rooted not only in star power but also in team balance. He pointed to the influence of coach Roberto Martínez and noted that several players come from the Paris Saint-Germain system, giving the squad a competitive foundation. For him, that mix of talent and organization makes Portugal a legitimate threat in the competition. His remarks also carried personal admiration for Ronaldo, calling the possibility of a World Cup triumph a fitting capstone to an extraordinary career.
The former River and Juventus forward also discussed Franco Mastantuono, one of Argentina’s most promising young players, in an interview with the Spanish newspaper AS. Trezeguet drew parallels between Mastantuono’s path and the many South American talents who move to Europe at a very young age. He said it is difficult to turn down clubs like Real Madrid or Barcelona, and suggested that a loan move could be the next step for the teenager. As an example, he cited Nico Paz as a model for development.
Mastantuono, who was sold from River Plate to Real Madrid, has become part of a broader trend in which top European clubs recruit South American players early in their careers, often before they have accumulated extensive first-division experience. Trezeguet acknowledged that River and other clubs cannot always keep their best prospects once they begin to stand out. He said maintaining strong dialogue with European clubs is important, since the region’s raw talent is highly attractive to teams on the other side of the Atlantic.
His comments reflect both his World Cup experience and his perspective on the modern transfer market. Trezeguet’s remarks about Portugal, Ronaldo and Mastantuono underline the contrast between established global stars and the next generation of South American footballers seeking their place in Europe.
