Now thriving under the management of Xabi Alonso, a Real Madrid talent appeared to subtly criticize former coach Carlo Ancelotti by suggesting he feels more fulfilled since the managerial change.
Arda Güler, who famously rejected a move to FC Barcelona in favor of joining Madrid from Fenerbahçe in 2023, has already added Champions League and La Liga titles to his résumé. However, he initially struggled to secure regular playing time due to fierce competition in the attack.
During his first season, Ancelotti preferred a front line featuring Vinicius Jr. and Rodrygo. With Kylian Mbappe’s arrival on a free transfer in the 2024/2025 season, the attacking trio often included both Brazilians and the French forward in the number nine role.
Towards the season’s conclusion, Ancelotti started showing more faith in Güler, giving him a role on the right side of the attack—particularly as Rodrygo was sidelined for crucial fixtures, including a decisive El Clasico that ended 4-3 in favor of Barcelona at Montjuic.
Ancelotti publicly praised the young Turkish international in May, predicting a bright future for him at Madrid. “Arda Güler is progressing well. He’s showcasing his talent and growing in consistency. I think he can become one of the top midfielders—there aren’t many at his level. He’ll be crucial to Real Madrid’s future,” the Italian coach stated.
Since then, Ancelotti has departed to manage Brazil’s national team, and Xabi Alonso has taken charge at Madrid, leading them in the Club World Cup. Under Alonso, Güler has found increased responsibility and satisfaction playing in a more central attacking role.
Speaking publicly, Güler confirmed his enjoyment: “Yes, definitely. I prefer playing centrally and I’m really enjoying it. I hope it continues this way.”
He noted that Alonso encourages him to operate as a classic number 10, leading and uplifting the team. “The system doesn’t matter much to me—whether we play with two or three up front. I enjoy being just behind the forwards, involved in the play,” Güler explained, while also expressing confidence ahead of a tough match against Dortmund, acknowledging their strong squad.
Güler remains optimistic about their chances, saying he’s confident they can advance past the German side and face either PSG or Bayern Munich in the semifinals.
Despite Güler’s rise in a central role, uncertainty looms over Rodrygo’s future. The Brazilian, once a regular starter, now finds himself benched and is reportedly attracting interest from Premier League clubs.
