A Rising Star in Real Madrid’s Golden Project
Since joining Real Madrid from Fenerbahçe in 2023 for €24 million, Arda Güler has been one of the most talked-about young players in Spanish football. His elegant ball control, vision, and creativity have made him a favorite among fans and analysts alike.
According to Fernando Tavero, Real Madrid correspondent for AS Newspaper, the Turkish wonderkid has become an integral part of Xabi Alonso’s tactical plans this season. Tavero shared exclusive insights about Arda’s role, development, and future in an interview with Zpor.
“Arda Is Building the Game from Deep Positions”
When asked about Alonso’s tactical approach, Tavero explained that Güler’s role has slightly changed compared to last season:
“Arda is playing deeper this year, closer to the center of midfield. This allows Jude Bellingham to fully occupy the No.10 role while still keeping Arda involved in build-up play. It’s actually quite logical—Arda’s vision and passing give Real Madrid extra creativity without losing control.”
This adjustment reflects Alonso’s trust in Güler’s intelligence and composure on the ball—traits rare for a 20-year-old at such an elite level.
“He Gained 8 Kilos of Muscle – Now He’s a Magician”
One of the most striking changes, Tavero noted, is Arda’s physical transformation:
“He gained nearly eight kilograms of muscle mass, which is incredible progress. Of course, he still has areas to improve, but the evolution is clear. With the ball, he’s something else—a true magician on the field. His creativity and imagination make him unpredictable; he turns football into art.”
Observers in Madrid have echoed similar praise, often comparing his technical elegance to Mesut Özil, yet with a more modern and dynamic edge.
Fans Adore Him – “No Nickname Needed, His Name Is Enough”
Arda Güler’s popularity among Real Madrid fans continues to soar. Stadium chants, shirt sales, and social media engagement all reflect the affection the supporters have for him.
“He doesn’t even have a nickname,” Tavero joked. “Everyone just calls him Arda. When you’re that talented and beloved, you don’t need anything else. Your name says it all.”
For a young player adapting to one of the most competitive environments in football, such affection shows how seamlessly Arda has blended into the club’s culture.
Alonso’s Quartet: Mbappé, Vinícius, Bellingham, and Arda
Under Xabi Alonso, Real Madrid’s attacking force has taken a new shape. The Spanish tactician has found balance in a front line featuring Kylian Mbappé, Vinícius Jr., Jude Bellingham, and Arda Güler.
“The future of Real Madrid should be built around these four,” Tavero emphasized. “I wouldn’t bench any of them—they represent a perfect mix of talent, power, creativity, and intelligence. You don’t separate chemistry like that; you build the team around it.”
This comment reflects the club’s long-term vision of nurturing youth and sustaining dominance through smart player development.
“Arda Is a Long-Term Project for Real Madrid”
When asked whether Arda could be transferred in the near future, Tavero was clear:
“There’s no chance of that happening. Arda is part of Real Madrid’s long-term project—he’s untouchable. The club wants him to be one of the cornerstones of the next generation.”
This aligns with Real Madrid’s renewed focus on developing global young stars such as Bellingham, Camavinga, and Valverde.
Impressive Numbers and Growing Influence
So far this season, Arda Güler has played 16 matches, contributing 4 goals and 6 assists across all competitions, including the Champions League and FIFA Club World Cup.
He has also impressed for the Turkish national team, scoring once and providing an assist against Bulgaria. His current market value has reportedly risen to €60 million, while his contract with Real Madrid runs until 2029.
Alonso’s Admiration: “He’s a Football Genius, Like Mesut Özil”
According to a report by Defensa Central, Alonso has been particularly vocal in his praise of the young star:
“He’s a genius who makes strikers shine with his passes,” Alonso reportedly told his staff.
The same report suggested that Alonso has even compared Arda to Mesut Özil, saying:
“He’s just like Özil—a pure football genius.”
Such admiration from a manager known for tactical precision underlines the level of trust Arda has earned in just his second full season with the club.
Arda’s Humble Response and Growing Maturity
Despite being flattered by the comparison, Güler’s response was reportedly humble and mature. Sources close to the team revealed that Arda took the praise as motivation, focusing even harder during training sessions and embracing more responsibility on the pitch.
His dedication hasn’t gone unnoticed. Teammates and coaches alike describe him as “disciplined, creative, and obsessed with improving,” qualities that suggest a bright and lasting future in Madrid.
sources
https://beinsports.com.tr/haber/xabi-alonsodan-arda-guler-sozleri-onun-gibi-bir-dahi
