Sometimes, all you need is a coach who believes in you.Just ask Arda Guler. The 20-year-old Real Madrid attacking midfielder was going through tough times at the Santiago Bernabeu ever since his arrival from Fenerbahce in July 2023.Under Carlo Ancelotti’s tutelage, not only did Arda not thrive, but he was given just bits and pieces, a “garbage time” to show his creativity and class in the last minutes of the already decided games.Odegaard 2.0 in the making: Will Arda Guler follow Arsenal star’s footsteps?As time passed, it seemed like he was heading to the Los Blancos exit doors without leaving much of a trace, despite his high expectations initially.However, Ancelotti’s departure affected Arda massively, as his successor in the dugout, Xabi Alonso, has performed some sort of sorcery, reinventing the youngster as a reliable central midfielder.When the transfer window started, the Royals were eager to sign someone who could fill the shoes of Toni Kroos and Luka Modric, who are no longer in their team. However, according to Diario AS, Real Madrid are increasingly looking at the Turkish starlet as THAT player. Guler began playing deeper against Pachuca and was deployed there intentionally against RB Salzburg. Then, finally, came the Juventus tie, which proved Arda’s versatility and the ability to perform in that new role.Patience, little man! Arda Guler is on the cusp of Real Madrid’s first teamHis ability on the ball has never been doubted. Still, now it seems like Guler can also organise the side in possession and act as a smooth operator. On the other hand, his defensive positioning and ball recovery might not yet be at the necessary level, but he has shown Xabi Alonso that he is willing to learn.##NAJAVA_MECA_9000995##
