When Arda Guler traded his Fenerbahce jersey for the signature white of Real Madrid two summers ago, he was hailed as a generational talent. The Turkish whizzkid, however, has found it challenging to secure a regular spot in the starting eleven since his arrival in the Spanish capital. With the young star’s future at the Bernabeu becoming increasingly uncertain due to limited game time, several Premier League clubs, including Arsenal, are reportedly on high alert.
Guler’s talents have never been in dispute since he set foot in Madrid. Despite struggling with injuries during his initial 18 months, his potential continues to shine through, earning him the respect and admiration of Real Madrid manager, Carlo Ancelotti. More so, he has been able to score an impressive double in a 5-0 thumping of fourth-tier Club Deportiva Minera, leading Real Madrid to the last 16 of the Copa del Rey.
However, despite his undeniable talent, Guler has found it challenging to cement a regular place in the starting line-up. Ancelotti has consistently preferred the likes of Brahim Diaz and Luka Modric over the young Turk. This lack of opportunities for younger players has been a point of contention among Ancelotti’s critics.
Former Real Madrid star, Mesut Ozil, has also voiced his concerns about the club’s treatment of Guler. Ozil urged the Madrid outfit to shield the young talent from excessive criticism and harm.
Arsenal expert, Charles Watts, has chimed in on the situation, suggesting that the Gunners should consider seizing the opportunity to sign Guler on loan from Real Madrid. The English club could provide an exit route for Guler, who is reportedly disgruntled with his current situation at Madrid.
Guler’s struggles for prominence at Madrid have been quite notable. Since moving to the Bernabeu in the summer of 2023, Guler has only managed 12 appearances in each of his two seasons, starting on only three occasions in the current campaign.
Meanwhile, in a boost for Arsenal, reports indicate that Real Madrid seems ready to let Guler leave on loan, putting several top clubs on alert.
Despite his struggles at Madrid, Guler has been making strides with the Turkish national team. Head coach Vincenzo Montella is confident that the young star is on the verge of making his mark at the Spanish club.
Euro 2024 has also seen Guler’s rise to prominence. The midfielder netted his first goal for Real Madrid during the tournament, drawing comparisons to Mesut Ozil.
Despite the uncertainty surrounding his future, Guler keeps proving his worth. He scored his first goal for Real Madrid in a 4-0 win over Celta Vigo in La Liga, coming on as an 89th-minute substitute.
The Turkish teenager, however, has had his fair share of impressive moments. His debut for Real Madrid in a 3-1 victory over Arandina in the Copa del Rey was a standout performance. The then 18-year-old, fresh from a €20 million move from Fenerbahce, played the first 59 minutes before being subbed off for Federico Valverde.
Guler’s future at Madrid remains uncertain, but his talent is undeniable. Whether he stays at Madrid, moves to the Premier League, or elsewhere, one thing is for sure – Arda Guler’s potential is astronomical, and he is one to watch as his career unfolds.