With Xabi Alonso widely anticipated to take the helm at Real Madrid for the 2025-26 season, a clear vision for the club’s future is beginning to emerge, with Turkish wonderkid Arda Guler is expected to play a role in the manager’s plans.
Crucially, the sentiment is mutual, as Guler himself is understood to be fully committed to succeeding at the Bernabéu, sources revealed to Turkish-Football.
Guler’s debut season in Madrid has been a test of patience, marked by early injuries and intense competition for places.
Despite flashes of brilliance, the 20-year-old midfielder has found regular playing time under Carlo Ancelotti challenging to come by. However, this looks set to change dramatically with Alonso’s arrival.
Sources close to the player indicate that Alonso has long admired Guler’s unique skillset.
The former Real Madrid midfielder, who has transformed Bayer Leverkusen into one of Europe’s most exciting teams with a fluid, possession-based system, sees Guler as a natural fit for his tactical blueprint.
Guler’s exceptional vision, exquisite left foot, and ability to operate in half-spaces are believed to align perfectly with the creative and orchestrating roles Alonso typically employs for his attacking midfielders.
The mutual desire is a significant factor. While there were rumors of a potential loan move last season, including interest from Alonso’s Leverkusen, Guler conveyed his firm intention to stay and fight for his place at Real Madrid.
This commitment has seemingly resonated with Alonso, who now sees the young Turk not as a temporary solution, but as a long-term cornerstone of his midfield.
The expected departures of seasoned midfielder Luka Modric who is in the twilight of his career will naturally open up opportunities in the engine room. Guler, alongside the dynamism of Fede Valverde, is being tipped to form a key part of Alonso’s revamped midfield.
This news will be a welcome relief for Real Madrid fans eager to see Guler fulfill his immense potential.
With a manager who believes in his abilities and a system tailored to his strengths, the stage appears set for Arda Guler to finally establish himself as a leading figure in Real Madrid’s new era under Xabi Alonso.