Real Madrid began their La Liga campaign with a narrow but crucial 1-0 victory over Osasuna, thanks to a penalty goal from Kylian Mbappé. Yet beyond the scoreline, much of the post-match spotlight was directed at 20-year-old Turkish midfielder Arda Güler, who earned his first starting role of the season.
Güler, who joined Los Blancos from Fenerbahçe in 2023, played nearly the full 90 minutes before being substituted in the final moments of the game. His performance was marked by an impressive 92 percent pass accuracy, a stat that underlined his growing importance in Real Madrid’s midfield structure.
Alonso’s Praise for Güler
Head coach Xabi Alonso spoke highly of the young midfielder in his post-match press conference. The Spanish manager emphasized not only Güler’s natural technical quality but also his increasing maturity in terms of positioning and tactical awareness.
“Arda Güler is progressing step by step. It’s not just about his quality—which was obvious from the start—but also about how he understands his role. He gives us stability, control, and involvement in our attacking play. In the first half, he allowed us to maintain pressure and create opportunities. We must continue to support him and give him minutes so he can become an important player. I am very happy for him,” Alonso explained.
These comments highlight the trust Alonso has in the young midfielder, especially at a time when Real Madrid is looking for creativity in the absence of Jude Bellingham, who is sidelined with a shoulder injury until mid-October.
Media Recognition Across Europe and Beyond
Güler’s performance did not go unnoticed by the international press.
The Real Champs, a U.S.-based outlet covering Real Madrid news, praised Alonso’s decision to consistently start Güler: “As a young player, there is no higher compliment than this. Since Alonso took charge, Güler has started regularly and already shown improvement in just a few weeks. He directed Madrid’s attacking midfield in Bellingham’s absence, helping the team maintain control and create chances.”
Sport.es commented on Alonso’s confidence in his decision to start Güler, noting that this was a statement of intent about the player’s role in the squad.
Mundo Deportivo described his display as “cautious and understated,” adding that while Güler did not immediately embody the classic playmaker role fans might expect, he demonstrated discipline and composure.
Sports Illustrated highlighted his exceptional passing: “Güler was central to Madrid’s possession-based game. Among all midfielders, he recorded the highest passing numbers with 72 successful passes, misplacing only six across the match.”
This range of opinions reflects both the high expectations surrounding Güler and the recognition that, at just 20 years old, his game is still developing.
A New Chapter for Real Madrid’s Midfield
Arda Güler’s performance in the season opener also carries broader implications for Real Madrid’s tactical options. With Jude Bellingham injured, Alonso has been forced to look at alternative structures in midfield. Güler’s technical ability and vision provide a different style of creativity compared to Bellingham’s more direct attacking instincts.
By maintaining possession and orchestrating transitions, Güler gives Madrid the ability to dictate tempo. His role could become increasingly central as the team adapts to challenging fixtures in both La Liga and the Champions League over the coming weeks.
Güler’s Own Reflections
On Instagram, Arda Güler shared his personal excitement following the match, writing: “It feels good to start the season with a victory. We will work hard every day to get better.” His message resonated with fans who have eagerly anticipated his breakthrough moment in the famous white jersey.
From Fenerbahçe to the Bernabéu
Since arriving at Real Madrid from Fenerbahçe in 2023 as one of Europe’s most promising talents, Güler’s adaptation has been closely watched by both Spanish and Turkish media. His journey from Istanbul to Madrid reflects not only his personal ambition but also the increasing recognition of Turkish footballers on the global stage.
At Fenerbahçe, Güler built a reputation as a technically gifted playmaker with excellent vision and composure under pressure. Real Madrid’s investment in him was both a nod to his potential and a signal of the club’s commitment to nurturing young talent.
The Road Ahead
While Güler still faces the challenge of becoming a consistent starter in a squad filled with world-class midfielders, his La Liga debut as part of the starting eleven has set a strong foundation. If he continues to deliver disciplined performances and build confidence, he could secure an even bigger role in Real Madrid’s tactical plans throughout the season.
For now, his composure, passing precision, and work rate have earned him respect from his coach, teammates, and fans alike. At just 20 years old, Arda Güler’s story in Madrid is only beginning, but the signs suggest it could be a long and successful chapter.
Editorial Note
From a broader perspective, Güler’s rise symbolizes how European giants like Real Madrid are embracing talent from diverse football cultures. His journey serves as inspiration for young players in Türkiye and beyond, showing that dedication, discipline, and seizing opportunities can lead to success on the grandest stages of football.
