Turkish football sensation Arda Güler, currently showcasing his talents at La Liga giants Real Madrid, has earned a spot on the prestigious 15-player shortlist for the 2025 Best Footballer of the Year award, as announced by the International Federation of Football History & Statistics (IFFHS). This nomination places Güler among the elite echelon of global football, where his skills, vision, and performance are recognized alongside some of the world’s most celebrated players.
The IFFHS award is determined by an international jury consisting of sports journalists and football experts from 120 countries across six continents. These jurors evaluate players based on their performances throughout the calendar year, including contributions to club and national teams, individual achievements, consistency, and overall impact on the sport. Each juror assigns points to the players, and the cumulative scores ultimately decide the winner.
Arda Güler’s Rise to Prominence
At just 19 years old, Arda Güler has already made significant waves in European football. Known for his exceptional vision, precise passing, and ability to dictate the tempo of the game, Güler has become an indispensable asset for Real Madrid. His rise from Turkish leagues to one of the world’s most prestigious football clubs reflects not only his talent but also his dedication and adaptability to top-level football.
This nomination is particularly significant for Turkish football, as it underscores the growing influence of players from Türkiye on the international stage. Güler’s style combines creativity and intelligence on the pitch, making him a formidable playmaker capable of influencing high-stakes matches. Coaches and analysts alike have praised his maturity, tactical awareness, and ability to perform under pressure—qualities that are crucial for earning recognition from an esteemed international jury like IFFHS.
Competing With the World’s Elite
Arda Güler faces formidable competition in the 2025 Best Footballer award race. His fellow nominees include established stars and emerging talents from Europe’s top leagues. The list features players who have consistently showcased exceptional skill, leadership, and contribution to their clubs and national teams. Notable competitors include:
Malik Tillman (Bayer Leverkusen)
Mohammed Kudus (Tottenham)
Reo Hatate (Celtic)
James Rodríguez (Leon)
Vitinha (PSG)
Pedri (Barcelona)
Martin Ødegaard (Arsenal)
Kevin De Bruyne (Napoli)
Florian Wirtz (Liverpool)
Cole Palmer (Chelsea)
Bruno Fernandes (Manchester United)
Jude Bellingham (Real Madrid)
Lionel Messi (Inter Miami)
Lamine Yamal (Barcelona)
Being included among these high-caliber players reflects Güler’s growing reputation in world football. It is not only a personal milestone but also a source of pride for Turkish football fans, who see their compatriot competing at the highest international level.
IFFHS Voting Process
The IFFHS voting process is designed to ensure a fair and comprehensive assessment of candidates. Each juror submits their evaluation based on multiple criteria, including technical skill, creativity, consistency, influence in matches, and leadership qualities. The points are then aggregated to produce a final ranking. This rigorous system ensures that the award is a credible reflection of a player’s overall performance throughout the year.
The winner of the 2025 Best Footballer award will be announced after December 10, 2025. Until then, fans and analysts worldwide are closely monitoring performances, particularly in major competitions like La Liga, UEFA Champions League, and international fixtures. Arda Güler’s presence on the shortlist is already generating significant media attention, highlighting his ability to compete with world-class talent.
Impact on Turkish Football
Arda Güler’s nomination has wider implications beyond personal recognition. It shines a spotlight on the development of young Turkish players and the potential for Türkiye to produce world-class talent capable of competing on the global stage. Football academies in Türkiye have increasingly emphasized technical training, tactical education, and exposure to competitive environments, all of which contribute to nurturing players like Güler.
His success story inspires a new generation of young athletes who aspire to follow in his footsteps. Local clubs and youth programs are likely to see increased interest, as aspiring footballers recognize that international recognition is achievable with dedication, discipline, and talent.
Achievements That Led to the Nomination
Throughout the 2025 season, Arda Güler has impressed with numerous standout performances for Real Madrid. His ability to create goal-scoring opportunities, assist teammates, and control the flow of play has earned him praise from coaches, pundits, and fans alike. Additionally, his contributions in key matches demonstrate a level of composure and intelligence often associated with more experienced players.
Analysts note that Güler’s style combines vision, technical proficiency, and decision-making skills, enabling him to execute complex plays under pressure. Such attributes have been critical in securing his place on the IFFHS shortlist and suggest that he will remain a key figure in European football for years to come.
The Road Ahead
While the competition is fierce, Arda Güler’s inclusion among the nominees cements his status as one of the most promising young talents in world football. As the year progresses, his performances in both domestic and international competitions will be closely scrutinized, with fans and media tracking his chances of winning the prestigious IFFHS award.
The nomination also reinforces Real Madrid’s strategy of integrating youthful talent with experienced players, creating a balanced team capable of sustained success in top-tier competitions. Güler’s development within such an elite environment provides him with opportunities to refine his skills, gain invaluable experience, and further establish his reputation globally.
Editor’s Commentary
Arda Güler’s nomination for the 2025 Best Footballer of the Year by IFFHS is not only a personal milestone but also a testament to the growing impact of Turkish players in international football. Competing against established stars like Messi, De Bruyne, and Bellingham highlights the level at which Güler is performing. This recognition serves as an inspiration for young athletes in Türkiye, emphasizing that talent, dedication, and hard work can lead to global acclaim. Observers will be watching closely as December approaches, anticipating how Güler’s journey unfolds.
