Real Madrid’s 2–1 victory over Barcelona in the latest El Clasico was filled with drama, emotion, and a touching story off the pitch. Young Turkish star Arda Güler, who started for Real Madrid in this high-pressure game, experienced both heartbreak and redemption in a single evening — and it all ended with a surprise phone call from Luka Modric, the legendary midfielder who once wore the white shirt of Los Blancos.
A Night of Triumph and Tension at the Santiago Bernabéu
The El Clasico showdown between Real Madrid and Barcelona in the 10th week of La Liga 2025–26 season was everything fans expected and more. The match began with high intensity as Jude Bellingham and Kylian Mbappé combined beautifully in the 22nd minute to put Real Madrid 1–0 ahead.
However, the first half took a shocking turn in the 38th minute, when Barcelona’s Fermin Lopez equalized — following a misplaced pass by Arda Guler, whose loss of possession allowed Barça to break quickly. The moment was tough for the 20-year-old Turkish midfielder, who looked devastated after the goal.
Despite the mistake, Madrid fans stood by him, applauding his effort and energy on the pitch. The Bernabéu faithful seemed to understand that Guler, still adapting to the rhythm of elite football, is learning through experience.
Standing Ovation Despite the Error
Real Madrid regained the lead before halftime through Bellingham’s powerful strike, sending the team to the dressing room 2–1 ahead. In the 65th minute, coach Xabi Alonso decided to make a tactical change, substituting Arda Guler for Brahim Diaz.
As Guler walked off the field, the entire stadium rose to applaud him. It was a powerful gesture — one that clearly lifted his spirits after the earlier mistake. Despite his visible frustration, Guler acknowledged the fans, a moment that symbolized the trust Real Madrid supporters have in his potential.
Luka Modric Reaches Out: “Stay Calm, You’re Still Young”
According to Spanish outlet Defensa Central, Real Madrid legend Luka Modric, now playing for AC Milan, personally reached out to Arda Guler after the match. The Croatian veteran, known for his calm leadership and mentorship, reportedly called Guler to offer words of comfort and encouragement.
“Stay calm, Arda. Mistakes happen, especially at your age. You have incredible talent — keep your confidence,” Modric said during the conversation, according to sources close to the player.
This small but meaningful gesture resonated deeply with fans, highlighting the brotherhood and unity among Real Madrid players past and present. Modric’s empathy reminded many supporters of how he guided younger teammates during his decade-long career in Madrid.
Spanish Media Divided Over Arda Guler’s Performance
While Real Madrid fans showed support, the Spanish press was divided in their assessment of Arda Guler’s night.
Several media outlets, including Marca and AS, emphasized that his technical skill and composure on the ball remained impressive, but some critics pointed to his lapse in concentration that led to Barcelona’s goal.
A particularly harsh comment came from a local Catalan journalist, who claimed that “Arda’s confidence betrayed him.” The remark quickly went viral, sparking debates across social media about whether such criticism was fair for a young player in his debut El Clasico start.
Nonetheless, many pundits defended him, pointing out that even elite players make errors in high-pressure matches. Former Madrid captain Sergio Ramos once famously said, “El Clasico is not a match, it’s a storm — you learn to survive it.” Arda Guler seems to be living that truth.
Arda Guler’s Rising Role Under Xabi Alonso
Manager Xabi Alonso has been carefully managing Arda Guler’s development since taking charge of Real Madrid. Known for nurturing young talent, Alonso has shown faith in Guler by giving him crucial minutes in both La Liga and Champions League fixtures.
Sources close to the team suggest that Alonso sees Guler as a long-term creative midfielder, capable of playing both centrally and on the right flank — similar to how Luka Modric once operated in his prime.
The Turkish international’s discipline, vision, and first touch have all been praised internally, and this experience in El Clasico may turn out to be a valuable learning moment in his journey.
Fan Reactions: Support and Optimism
Following the match, social media flooded with messages of support for Arda Guler. Thousands of fans used hashtags like #StayStrongArda and #HalaMadrid, expressing confidence that he will bounce back stronger.
Several Turkish fans even compared Modric’s phone call to “a master encouraging his apprentice,” reinforcing the narrative that Real Madrid remains a family, even across generations.
Looking Ahead: A Lesson, Not a Setback
For Arda Guler, the El Clasico against Barcelona will be remembered as both a challenge and a turning point. Every young star at Real Madrid faces moments like this — Cristiano Ronaldo, Vinícius Jr., and even Bellingham have all been through their share of criticism.
What truly defines a Real Madrid player is how they respond, not the mistake itself. And with guidance from a legend like Luka Modric, Arda Guler seems destined to turn this episode into motivation for the future.
