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SOCCER

Arda Güler, surprised, finds out what Xabi Alonso is saying: 'He's a g...'

The Turkish player's role in the team from the Spanish capital has completely changed, and the coach has made it clear

Real Madrid is experiencing a period of sporting stability after a solid start to the season. With Xabi Alonso in charge, the team has shown a clear identity based on meritocracy. The Donostia-born coach doesn't focus on names, but on daily performance; whoever truly earns it on the field gets to play.

Soccer coach giving instructions on the sideline during a match with referees and assistants in the background and spectators in the stands.
Xabi Alonso on the bench area during a match | Europa Press

That philosophy has had a direct effect on several players, but none has experienced as remarkable a change as Arda Güler. The Turk, who barely had any minutes under Carlo Ancelotti, has found his greatest supporter in Xabi Alonso. He is now untouchable in the starting eleven, and has even moved ahead of Bellingham in the attacking rotation.

Arda Güler's role in the new Real Madrid

The new life of Arda Güler at Madrid has a decisive factor: his connection with Mbappé. Both understand each other perfectly, and their chemistry on the field has become one of the most lethal weapons for the white team. Thanks to that partnership, Arda has gone from being a quiet prospect to an undisputed starter.

Xabi Alonso is delighted with his performance. From the first day at Valdebebas, he gave him trust and minutes, aware of his talent and his ability to make a difference in tight spaces. The coach has commented privately that Arda Güler is "the player who makes others shine".

According to information published by Defensa Central, Xabi Alonso hasn't hesitated to compare Arda Güler to Mesut Özil, one of the great creative figures in Madridist history. In internal conversations, the coach reportedly stated: "Arda has that touch of genius that Mesut had. He's that kind of special player who makes the striker shine with his passes, he's a genius".

The great compliment that compares Arda Güler to Özil

Sources close to the situation say that Alonso also commented: "He's a genius just like Özil was". This phrase has quickly spread through the halls of Valdebebas and reflects the enormous trust the coach places in the young Turk. Meanwhile, Arda Güler has received these words with humility, focused on continuing to improve and solidify his role in the team.

The change in Arda Güler's dynamic since Carlo Ancelotti's departure has been complete. From being a secondary player, he is now a key piece in Real Madrid's playmaking and offensive transition. His vision, passing accuracy, and composure in the final yards have allowed him to earn the respect of the locker room and the fans.

With Xabi Alonso in charge, Real Madrid has regained the excitement for elegant, effective, and attractive soccer. In that project, Arda Güler has become the symbol of the new Madrid: young, talented, and hungry for glory. If he keeps this level, it won't be surprising if he is soon talked about as one of the great talents in European soccer.

➡️ Real Madrid ➡️ Soccer

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