Arriving this summer as the new sensation of Real Madrid, Arda Güler didn’t have the smoothest debut season. Nevertheless, his successful integration bodes well for his future with the Merengues.
On the shores of the Bosphorus, everyone agrees. This conjecture not only rhymes but is also real. Developed and nurtured within the Fenerbahce academy, Arda Güler made a name for himself in his homeland. Regarded since his adolescence as a generational talent destined to lead Turkey for the next 20 years, the attacking midfielder didn’t disappoint during his early days with Fenerbahce. However, with a release clause of only €17.5 million, the biggest clubs of the Old Continent began courting the Turkish gem.
Aware of the great destiny awaiting him, the Ay-Yıldızlılar international (5 caps, 1 goal) chose Real Madrid. This is a club where prodigies become legends, leaving an indelible mark on the history of football. It was a long-term choice aligned with a clear project outlined by the Merengues, as confessed by the player to KAFA Sports: “They told me about the project, that I would be Modrić’s successor. That convinced me. Our coach constantly talks to me about his plans. He is preparing me. He is in constant communication. Anyone who paid €17.5 million (release clause) could buy me. With my family, we asked Real Madrid to pay more to Fenerbahçe.”
Thus, Güler got his wish, as he was acquired for €28 million during the last summer transfer window. This amount should justify itself in the years to come despite a tumultuous first season. Quickly sidelined by a meniscus injury, muscular issues plagued him until the end of last year. Finally spared from injuries for a few months now, the 19-year-old has been gaining playing time. In eight appearances with the Santiago Bernabéu side, the Turk has scored two goals, including the winner against Real Sociedad this past Friday in the league (0-1).
This is the result of an integration that went very smoothly with the rest of the group. The virtuoso, often compared to Mesut Özil, revealed the nickname his teammates had given him since his arrival in Spain: “I could have stayed at Fenerbahçe for another year, but I wanted to show the world what a young Turk could do in Europe, I hope to continue doing so. They call me ‘Abi’ all the time. I’m also surprised when Luka calls me ‘Abi.’ Interesting, because they don’t know what ‘Abi’ means. (in Turkish, it means brother, ed.)” His good form and rising performance could see him play a more significant role in the coming weeks. Perhaps starting with a convincing appearance against Bayern Munich in the Champions League semi-final this Tuesday.
Leave a Reply