Source: Real Madrid
Retired Real Madrid midfield maestro Toni Kroos has offered his insights into Arda Güler’s evolving role under new manager Xabi Alonso, expressing strong admiration for the young Turk’s talent and readiness for a larger presence in the squad.
Speaking on his widely followed podcast, Einfach mal Luppen, co-hosted with his brother Felix, Kroos highlighted Güler’s exceptional ability to find pockets of space and create attacking opportunities.
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“When you have a player like him, who knows how to find space, you can forgive him if he loses a duel now and then,” Kroos explained as reported by SPORT, acknowledging the attacking freedom afforded to such creative talents.
However, the former German international, who epitomized midfield control, also emphasized the importance of defensive responsibility, even for highly offensive players. “The important thing is that he understands his role in the team and joins the collective effort when defending,” he added, stressing the need for teamwork in all phases of play.
Güler’s Physical Evolution and Readiness
Kroos believes that the timing is opportune for Güler to assume greater responsibility at Real Madrid. Having played at the highest level in Madrid’s midfield for years, Kroos is uniquely positioned to assess such transitions. “Last year, he already had the technical level with the ball, but now physically he has also taken a step forward. He’s ready,” Kroos asserted, noting Güler’s significant physical development.
Alonso’s Defensive Philosophy
The discussion also touched upon the critical aspect of team defense, a cornerstone of Xabi Alonso’s new project at Real Madrid. Kroos elaborated on the benefits of collective defensive effort, stating, “When everyone defends together, the team benefits. Recovering the ball gives energy. If you don’t press or help defensively, you will end up chasing the ball the whole game.” He candidly admitted, “That was one of the big problems last year.”
Looking at the broader picture of team building under a new coach, Kroos stressed the importance of a clear tactical system. “You have to know what the plan is and then choose the players that fit that idea best,” he advised.
Kroos concluded by throwing his full support behind Xabi Alonso. Despite their brief time as teammates, Kroos expressed immense confidence in Alonso’s leadership. “I have a lot of trust in Xabi. He has a clear vision and knows how to get his message across. If they defend well, they’ll attack even better,” he affirmed, painting an optimistic picture for Real Madrid’s future under their new coach.