Arda Güler’s versatility is set to earn him a more significant and prominent role this season at Real Madrid. He may exhibit a similar interchangeability to Fede Valverde, playing both as a pseudo-right winger and a central midfielder.
At just 19, Güler has demonstrated maturity and composure far beyond his years. During his first major international tournament with Turkey at Euro 2024, he carried himself like a seasoned superstar veteran. Entering the pre-season in exceptional shape, Güler has already been Real Madrid’s standout player in the first two friendlies.
What has impressed Real Madrid the most isn’t just his performances, although they have been exceptional, but his mentality and ability to excel in any situation. Güler’s relentless pursuit of increased playing time is remarkable.
It’s rare to see a player seize every single moment and every single second so effectively, which has now led him to gain incremental trust from the coaching staff and the board. He is driven, focused, and delivers without making excuses.
Some of Güler’s traits might be considered intangible, but they are highly noticeable. While some players save their best efforts for critical moments during the season, Güler consistently plays with the same intensity in a knockout match at the international level as he does in a pre-season friendly or training session.
Güler’s versatility is also crucial. In an era of position-less football, where many of Real Madrid’s signings can play multiple roles, Güler has carved out a path where he can fit into various schemes.
The role of a ‘number 10’ has often faded at Real Madrid because it’s a position that doesn’t always fit within their tactical blueprint. However, manager Carlo Ancelotti has ensured that talented players like Brahim Diaz, Jude Bellingham, and Güler himself can thrive.
Güler is capable of playing as a right-winger, centrally, and even in deeper midfield roles. Ancelotti commented on this, stating, “Arda’s best position is between the lines; he can be a 10, he can be in the right-center. 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.”
Ancelotti’s experimentation in training further supports Güler’s versatility. After suggesting the possibility of Güler playing in midfield, he included him in the starting XI during a training session in Chicago, where Güler impressed by dropping as deep as the ‘number 6’ position and orchestrating the build-up phase like a quarterback.
Although training sessions only reveal so much, Güler’s ability to drop deep to facilitate play was also evident with Turkey, helping his team escape pressure.
In the post-Kroos era, Güler evolving into such a role, even part-time, could significantly enhance the team’s verticality. His decision-making under pressure is excellent, helping the team transition quickly up the field.
Most recently, against Barcelona, he showcased his ability to turn out of challenges swiftly and release the ball quickly, aiding in offensive transitions. When necessary, he holds the ball just long enough to draw defenders in before passing to the right space.
It’s clear that Güler will be much more involved next season, regardless of his specific role. His defensive efforts and ability to provide symmetry also make him a viable option on the right wing, complementing players like Vinicius and potentially Mbappe.
Ancelotti has already hinted at Güler’s increased involvement, noting, “He has arrived very well, he worked a lot during the vacations. He has arrived more powerful, more resistant, and with the same quality. This season will be important for him, with more prominence.”
Güler’s dedication, versatility, and impressive performances have positioned him for a breakout season with Real Madrid, where he is expected to play a key role in various capacities, showcasing his talent and determination.
Arda Güler vs Barcelona, pre-season, 2024.
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— Managing Madrid (@managingmadrid) August 4, 2024
