Source: Real Madrid
Real Madrid, under the guidance of newly appointed manager Xabi Alonso, delivered a commanding performance against Austrian side Salzburg, securing a decisive 3-0 victory in what appears to be a highly encouraging pre-season fixture. The match served as a clear demonstration of Alonso’s tactical influence, with his squad showcasing a level of dominance and forcefulness that overwhelmed their opponents.
While Real Madrid’s overall superiority was evident, it was the surprising display of Turkish prodigy Arda Güler that truly captured the attention of his new manager.
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Despite typically operating as a right winger, Güler excelled in an unexpected central role, becoming Real Madrid’s most effective player in duels, winning an impressive nine contested challenges throughout the game. His relentless energy and ability to consistently emerge victorious in one-on-one situations made him a constant thorn in Salzburg’s side.
Alonso openly expressed his pleasant surprise at Güler’s immediate impact, particularly given the player’s limited opportunities under former manager Carlo Ancelotti. Güler, who arrived in the summer of 2023, endured a challenging debut season plagued by injuries that severely restricted his playing time. However, when he did feature, he often responded with moments of individual brilliance, including a series of memorable goals.
Alonso’s tactical adjustments appear to be unlocking a new dimension in Güler’s game. By shifting him into a more central position, often alongside star midfielder Jude Bellingham, the manager has created a system that maximizes Güler’s potential. As Alonso himself has indicated, the implementation of a three-center-back formation provides Güler with more space to operate in the midfield, enhancing Real Madrid’s overall dynamism and enabling them to apply greater pressure on opposing teams.
Güler’s standout performance in the recent Club World Cup seems to have solidified his place within Alonso’s plans. Prior to the tournament, it was widely reported that Alonso had prioritized the acquisition of a new midfielder to bolster the team’s tempo and control both in and out of possession. However, Güler’s emergence and undeniable talent in this new role may have rendered that particular transfer target obsolete for both the manager and the club hierarchy. His rapid ascent suggests he could become a pivotal figure in Xabi Alonso’s Real Madrid revolution.