Arda Güler emerged as a standout player in the final stretch of last season and has continued to shine for Real Madrid during their United States tour, catching the attention of coach Carlo Ancelotti.
Güler’s strong performances in the early stages of preseason are a stark contrast to the challenges he faced last summer, including an injury that sidelined him. Now, he’s secured a place in the starting lineup for the first two friendlies (Ancelotti gave him a rest during the third match against Chelsea).
In the 2024-25 preseason, Güler’s impact has been felt from the outset. In the Clásico, he delivered the corner that set up Nico Paz’s opening goal. Güler nearly scored himself, only for a tight offside call to deny him after a brilliant first-half finish following a sensational control of Brahim’s pass.
The 19-year-old Turk “has become more powerful and more resistant,” according to Ancelotti. He played 57 minutes against Milan, delivering one of Madrid’s best first-half performances. In the Clásico, he completed the full match, adding an assist for Nico Paz. Güler began both games as a right winger but ended the match against Barça playing up front alongside Vinicius after a series of substitutions.
Ancelotti is keen to position him closer to the opponent’s box. “I think the closer to the goal, the better. He is very effective, scores easily in tight spaces, and has a special talent. He shows it better closer to the goal. He shouldn’t play on the left. With his left foot, if he has the opportunity to shoot, he should take it,” the Madrid coach said during the tour.
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