Since arriving at Real Madrid in 2023, Arda Güler has experienced a roller coaster ride. Initially, the Turk, aged 19 at the time, had to find his place in a locker room populated with stars as well as on the pitch. His first steps were rather timid. It must be said that he did not always have the opportunity to show what he had in his stomach since he spent a lot of time on the bench and in the infirmary. In the end, Carlo Ancelotti only used it 12 times. A time that he used to score 6 goals. During the transfer window, some media raised the possibility of sending him on loan so that he could gain playing time. But the Ankara native, who was able to count on the support of Fede Valverde who took him under his wing, stayed. The Merengues have decided to continue moving forward hand in hand with him.
In any case, Arda Güler and her entourage had made it known that they had no intention of leaving. A profitable choice since he had a little more playing time during the 2024-25 financial year. Indeed, he was used 49 times (6 goals, 11 assists). The Turkish international played under the orders of Mister, but also under those of Xabi Alonso who managed him during 6 matches during the Club World Cup (6 matches, 1 goal and 2 assists). Conquered, the Spanish technician subsequently made him one of his starters. This could have created some turmoil in the locker room where some were obviously not of the same opinion. No matter, the 21-year-old showed a rather attractive face, racking up assists and goals. A real winning bet from Xabi Alonso.
From announced victim to essential
Despite the latter’s departure, Güler still had opportunities to play with Alvaro Arbeloa, before missing 5 games at the end of the season due to a muscle injury. He finished the year with a record of 6 goals and 14 assists in 51 appearances in all competitions. However, in Spain, people did not give much of their skin this summer. If the Turkish press mentioned a few interests here and there, the Iberian media were very worried about him. The arrivals of Bernardo Silva then Yan Diomandé were to practically condemn him according to several publications. The Turk was announced as the big victim of the Madrid transfer window. In the end, it’s not the case. We can even say that the Turk, whose versatility is a real plus, is the big winner of the summer.
Firstly, he is in good form and clearly contributes to José Mourinho’s team when he is on the pitch. For the moment, the Special One has called on him 5 times (227 minutes of play), including 3 times as a starter. The Turk responded perfectly with 1 goal and 2 assists, the last of which against Rayo Vallecano last weekend. The attacking midfielder is notably used as a right winger. An option which is bearing fruit since he is comfortable in this position, he who notably has an excellent relationship with Kylian Mbappé. This allows Mourinho not to do without his technical qualities or even his vision of the game. In addition to his talents, Arda Güler also benefits from the fact that his competitors are not (yet) at the top.
The competition had better watch out
On Saturday, he replaced Yan Diomandé, who started and who did not shine. In just over 20 minutes, he did good to his team and harm to his opponents. He delivered an assist for KM10. After the final whistle, Mourinho was very satisfied with his player. “Arda… he’s very good, and obviously he brings a lot. he has a lot of quality and a positive influence on the team’s play. When he came in, he made the difference.” Monday at a press conference, the Portuguese was again questioned about the Turk, who clearly shows that he will have a say this season. “There are people more qualified than me to talk about its evolution. People who have been there since his arrival and his physical transformation.”
He continues: “but for me, his quality of play is incredible: his vision, his decision-making, his ability to create play, the stability he brings to the team, his creativity… In my eyes, he is a player with fantastic potential who already displays impressive statistics. Of course, we do more in-depth analysis than just the number of assists and goals. He is a player who has considerable influence. As you said, I might not dare say ‘at the top’ three times, but we are certainly already very close to it.” In a group full of stars, Arda Güler clearly stands out as one of the most impressive players at the start of the season. It poses real headaches for the staff, who have to juggle everyone and give playing time to the recruits.
A good “problem” for Mourinho
But with a Turk at this level of form and confidence, the competition has to worry. In Spain, the sports press, renowned for being sharp, has chosen its side. A.S. writes about him: “Güler, the first puzzle. Thanks to him, Real Madrid regained control of the match. In just 23 minutes, he provided the assist for the fourth goal… and much more. He leads La Liga in the number of chances created per 45 minutes of play. His exceptional touch on the ball earned him an indisputable starting place.” Marca agrees. “Güler’s state of grace fuels the debate. The Turk revolutionized the Bernabéu in 23 minutes against Rayo, with a performance which raises the question of his status as a substitute and confirms that he is currently going through his best period in the white jersey.
Marca continues: “the debate is more lively than ever, because Güler has become indispensable to the team. He is a player apart, who is currently playing at the top of his form since his arrival in Madrid and who, with Bernardo Silva, is perhaps the most talented player in the squad. At this stage, doing without the Turk would almost be a mistake.” José Mourinho knows that he will have to manage his case well, but also the competition in the middle and on the right wing, where Güler battles with Diomandé, Endrick, Brahim Diaz without counting Rodrygo, still injured. At the moment he is showing everyone that it is very difficult to do without him. In three years, Arda Güler, whose simplicity and anti-star side are praised, has gone through all the states in the roller coaster that is Real Madrid. Currently it seems on the highest part.
