Real Madrid have been in inspired form of late, remaining unbeaten in their last 18 matches across all competitions. Throughout the busy 2024 schedule, Carlo Ancelotti has been forced to experiment with his team and implement stricter squad rotation protocol.
One of the players to benefit from a recent runout in the Real Madrid lineup is Arda Guler. The Turkey international didn't have the easiest start to life in the Spanish capital, having signed in the summer of 2023. However, recently, he has proven his worth in the squad, impressing in his limited minutes.
As per WhoScored, Guler has only played 99 La Liga minutes but during that time, he has scored two goals. Needless to say, he helped Real Madrid's title campaign at the weekend, scoring the only goal in the 1-0 win over Real Sociedad. Even then, he was substituted just shy of the 70th minute mark.
Guler's lack of game-time this season has begged the question of whether or not Guler would be better off developing elsewhere. However, make no mistake about it - Guler has never shown a lack of commitment to the cause and if anything, he has shown every bit of desire to wear the Real Madrid jersey.
Real Madrid standout rejected La Liga transfer exit
Recent Real Madrid transfer news has yet again personified this. As per Diario AS, Guler turned down the opportunity to sign for Granada in January. This came after Bayern Munich signed Bryan Zaragoza, leaving a place in the starting lineup for Granada to offer to Guler. It is stated that Guler preferred to remain at Real Madrid to fight for a spot in the team.
The weekend marked a huge milestone for Guler during his Real Madrid tenure. The Turkey international earned his first La Liga start and he will hope for at least one more between now and the end of the season, particularly with squad rotation in mind.
Despite not having the best start in his new surroundings, summer signing Arda Guler certainly been showing great signs of life since the turn of 2024 and he will hope for an increase in game-time next season.
That said, with the arrivals of Endrick, Kylian Mbappe and potentially a new midfielder in the shape of Florian Wirtz, he may be fighting a losing battle.
Do you think Arda Guler has a bright future at Real Madrid?