Arda Güler is poised to assume a much more prominent and influential role within the team this season. With increased responsibility, he will be stepping up to make a more significant impact on the field. This season promises to see him take on key responsibilities and contribute significantly to the team’s success, reflecting his development and growing importance in their strategic plans.
At just 19 years old, Güler has displayed maturity and composure far exceeding his age. During his debut at a major international tournament with Turkey in Euro 2024, he conducted himself with the poise of a seasoned veteran twice his age. Heading into the pre-season, he is impressed with his exceptional fitness. He has emerged as Real Madrid’s standout performer in their first two friendly matches.
What stands out most to Real Madrid is not just his impressive performances—although they are certainly noteworthy—but rather his mindset and remarkable ability to elevate his game whenever it matters most.
Güler has shown a relentless drive to earn more playing time. He seizes every chance on the field, making the most of every moment and second. This dedication has led to growing confidence from both the coaching staff and the board. His commitment is evident in his tireless work ethic, his refusal to make excuses, and his ability to stay focused and consistently deliver strong performances. This unwavering determination has helped him stand out and solidified his place in the team’s plans.
Some of these qualities might be hard to measure but clearly visible. While many players save their best for important games, Güler brings the same level of effort and intensity to every match, whether it’s a crucial international game, a pre-season friendly, or a training session.
His versatility is also crucial. In today’s football, where players often take on various roles, Güler has found a way to fit into different systems. The traditional ’10’ role has frequently diminished at Real Madrid, as it’s often not part of the team’s strategy. However, Ancelotti has ensured that talented players like Brahim Diaz, Jude Bellingham, and Güler can excel by adapting to the team’s needs.
Güler can play as a right-winger, in central positions, and even in more defensive or profound roles.
“Arda’s best position is between the lines; he can be a 10, he can be in the right-center,” Carlo Ancelotti told the Managing Madrid. “He shouldn’t play on the left with that left foot he has. If he has the opportunity to shoot, he should do it. In the future, he could be one of the three midfielders.”
The day after Ancelotti mentioned that Güler might play in midfield, he tested this idea by including Güler in the starting lineup during a training session in Chicago.
Güler made a strong impression by dropping back to play defensive midfielder and effectively managing the build-up phase like a quarterback.
While training has limits, Güler has shown his ability to drop deeper with Turkey to help the team handle pressure. In the post-Kroos era, if Güler can take on a role like this, even occasionally, it could significantly improve the team’s ability to move the ball vertically.
His smart decision-making is crucial for helping the team deal with pressure. For example, in the recent match against Barcelona, he showed how fast he can turn away from challenges and quickly pass the ball to move the team forward. He also knows when to hold onto the ball to draw defenders in before making a precise pass.
No matter what position he plays, it’s clear that Güler will have a bigger role next season. His defensive work and balancing skills make him an excellent fit to play on the right wing with Vinicius and Mbappe.
Ancelotti already gave such hints.
“He has arrived very well, he worked a lot during the vacations,” Ancelotti said. “He has arrived more powerful, more resistant, and with the same quality. This season will be important for him, with more prominence.”
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