Arda Guler’s steady rise under Xabi Alonso has been one of the more exciting developments at Real Madrid this season.
Yet, according to Defensa Central, the Turkish prodigy’s evolution has sparked a quiet internal debate at the club about where exactly he should play.
While some within the club believe Guler’s natural creativity and flair make him better suited to a more advanced attacking role, others are convinced his long-term potential lies deeper in midfield.
The coaching staff, however, remain calm and patient in their assessment.
They are convinced that Guler will show his best version operating in the middle of the park, where he can dictate play and link up fluidly with Madrid’s front line.
We must observe
Sources close to the team stress that “it’s too early to draw conclusions”, and Alonso’s staff are intent on giving the 20-year-old time to grow naturally into his role.
At the Santiago Bernabeu, there is no sense of urgency, as the club prefers to allow his development to unfold gradually, trusting that his confidence and maturity will continue to increase over the coming months.
ARda Guler, Real Madrid player
Arda Guler has thrived under Xabi Alonso. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)
Guler’s progress compared to last season is already evident, as he looks sharper, more influential, and most importantly, more comfortable.
His growing sense of importance under Alonso has clearly played a part in that transformation.
Going forward…
As such, Alonso faces a tactical dilemma. The Real Madrid boss has an overflowing midfield and was keen on adding another specialist in the summer.
Yet, Florentino Perez refused to reinforce the area, leaving Alonso to maximise what he already has.
The long-term plan for Guler is to nurture him into one of the best midfielders in the world.
The coaching staff hope he will peak around March and April, the decisive months in every season, fully integrated, experienced, and ready to influence big games.