Real Madrid star Arda Guler has played only his second match since joining the club in the summer as he attempts to shake off a series of injuries.
The 18-year-old showed no signs of concern and Carlo Ancelotti did not hesitate to throw him into the deep end. Guler made his debut last weekend, playing an hour against Arandina in the Copa del Rey. Ancelotti gave him eight minutes of extra time to try to swing the situation in the team’s favor, while the score was 3-3.
“Today was my first cup match. I am very happy that we won against Atlético Madrid. There is a very good family and friendly atmosphere here at Real Madrid. The opponent doesn’t matter. We are Real Madrid, so we will play to win, whoever the opponent is. I hope we can win the Super Cup,” Guler told Tivubu Spor. “I was injured for 5 to 6 months. I came out of my injury and our coach Ancelotti included me in the team and let me play. He always expresses his faith and trust in me by talking to me on and off the field. I hope that if I continue like this, everything will get better.”
For the Turkish virtuoso, Real Madrid must play the leading roles in all competitions. Words that some might find arrogant: “I am at the beginning of my dream. I’m not playing much at the moment, but our results are incredible. We play the leading roles in all competitions. It’s Real Madrid, we have a great quality squad. I hope I can continue to be a part of it“.
Guler is tipped for a long and successful future at the Santiago Bernabéu, hence the reluctance to rush things with the former Fenerbahçe player. However, from his point of view, he will want to arrive at the end of the season in top form, with the Euros fast approaching. “ I really miss playing for the Turkish national team. There is a new generation, we have a new manager (Vincenzo Montella). I hope everything goes much better at the Euro. We can seriously work on it.“
