Dhaka, Aug. 19 -- Real Madrid coach Xabi Alonso has praised teenage signing Franco Mastantuono for his maturity while playing down the Argentine's choice of Lionel Messi as the world's best player.

The 18-year-old midfielder recently signed a six-year contract with Madrid and, during his unveiling last week, said he considered compatriot Messi the greatest player.

"It's only natural Messi is his idol," Alonso told reporters on Monday. "He's Argentine and left-footed, so it doesn't surprise me."

Mastantuono's remarks, which referenced a Barcelona legend and long-time rival of Madrid, drew headlines in Spain and left some Madrid fans displeased. For over a decade, Messi battled Cristiano Ronaldo, who is regarded by many as Madrid's all-t...