Why always him? Real Madrid star’s frustrations understandable

The frustration in the Real Madrid team has been clear throughout the season and was on display in their 4-2 defeat to Benfica. Kylian Mbappe's brace came in vein as Jose Mourinho oversaw a comeback victory over his former employers.

Alvaro Arbeloa took the blame for the loss at the Estadio da Luz which means Madrid must book their place in the Champions League last 16 through the playoffs. The Spaniard continues to protect his players despite several being just at fault for last night's dissapointment.

There might be merit to Arbeloa's stance though given he opted to bring Arda Guler off in the 79th minute. His side were chasing an equaliser and the Turkish midfielder had been one of a few starters to actually perform well on the night.

Guler vented frustration

Guler has endured a topsy-turvy season but looked to have found his feet under Arbeloa in recent weeks. He posted assists in wins over Levante (2-0) and AS Monaco (6-1) and seemed to be an important part of his caretaker manager's tactical setup.

But the Turk wasn't handed the full 90 minutes and this evidently irked him when he was spotted on camera uttering to himself: "Always me, always me."

Arbeloa spoke before the game about Guler being one for the future but perhaps he should focus more on the present. The 20-year-old was Madrid's only real creative outlet last night and the club's decision to snub a new creative midfielder last summer looks extremely clumsy.

Guler made one assist, created six chances, completed 51 of 57 passes and made nine passes into the final third. With his side chasing a much-needed equaliser, he deserved to stay on the pitch and help them find it.

The night went from bad to worse after his substitution as Raul Asencio and Rodrygo saw red late on. Benfica goalkeeper Anatoliy Trubin headed home a 90+8th minute goal that ensured Mourinho's men remained in the competition and that Arbeloa's side were handed a 4-2 loss.

Guler might start considering his future

Arbeloa may have hyped up Guler before last night's game, but the Turkish midfielder hasn't been given the same untouchable treatment as some of his teammates. He was dubbed the new Mesut Ozil back at Fenerbahce but he has yet to become the superstar talent at the Bernabeu.

If Guler wants a more protagonistic role he is not going to get it at Madrid anytime soon. The Turkiye international isn't seen as a talismanic figure and he might feel a move allows him to take up such a status.

Arsenal are reportedly showing interest in Guler and he could become one of their main men under Mikel Arteta. Martin Odegaard has regressed this season and there's an opportunity for someone to take over the number 10 role fromthe Gunners' captain