Real Madrid are entering a new era, one marked by fresh ideas, renewed excitement, and the end of a historic cycle.
Luka Modric’s departure after the Club World Cup will officially close a glorious chapter for the club, but according to Real Madrid Confidencial, there is already a clear plan for what comes next.
Both incoming manager Xabi Alonso and club president Florentino Perez have reportedly agreed that Arda Guler is the player best suited to fill the massive void left by the Croatian maestro.
Modric, who is set to say goodbye after more than a decade of excellence at the Bernabeu, leaves behind a legacy of grace, consistency, and leadership.
Rather than seeking a high-profile replacement on the market, Real Madrid believe the solution is already in-house.
Sources claim this belief has been growing within Real Madrid for months. Many at the club have come to see Guler not as a fringe player or attacking option, but as a natural midfielder who thrives in central areas, much like Modric in his prime.
Now, with the arrival of Xabi Alonso, this idea has gained even more traction. The Spaniard is said to be a strong admirer of Guler’s intelligence, technical ability, and creative instinct.
Unlike Carlo Ancelotti, who struggled to find minutes for the young Turkish star in a squad packed with senior talent, Alonso sees Guler as a genuine project for the future, and more importantly, a player for the present.
The expectation is that under Alonso, Guler will get significantly more playing time. While his debut season was disrupted by injuries and limited opportunities, Guler still managed to show glimpses of his quality.
Now, with Modric’s exit confirmed and a manager who values youth development stepping in, the stage is set for Guler to shine.