'Turkish Messi' ready to replace Modric at Real Madrid

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Referred to as "the Turkish Messi," Arda Guler found it challenging to meet the expectations placed upon him last season while under Carlo Ancelotti's management. However, the 20-year-old is experiencing a revival since the arrival of Ancelotti’s successor.

Sport explores the journey of a talented player who has the ability to emerge as one of the finest in the world.

2024-25: A season of setbacks for Guler

At this point last year, Guler seemed ready to play an essential part in the revitalization of Real’s midfield.

The former Fenerbahce prodigy wrapped up his debut season in Spain impressively, netting six goals in only 10 La Liga matches to contribute to his team's championship victory.

His performance at Euro 2024 was also noteworthy for Turkey, especially with a goal that was a contender for the tournament's best, highlighting his elegant skill by curling a stunning 25-yard shot into the net against Georgia.

At that moment, it seemed he was on track to follow in the footsteps of Real colleagues like Vinicius Jr, Fede Valverde, and Eduardo Camavinga—young talents from abroad signed for their immense potential who quickly became integral players.

However, this did not materialize. Instead, the 2024-25 season became one of missed opportunities.

Ancelotti rarely relied on Guler in crucial matches, emphasizing his limited role when he was left on the bench during both legs of Real’s Champions League quarter-final exit against Arsenal.

Guler concluded the season with under 1,800 minutes across all competitions—marking the second-lowest total among the squad (excluding long-term injuries)—leading to rumors he might consider leaving Madrid to rejuvenate his career.

The situation changed with Ancelotti’s exit, Alonso’s hiring, and thus far, Guler has been the main beneficiary.

Replacing Modric in midfield?

Guler's challenge in securing a position under Ancelotti stemmed from ambiguity regarding his ideal role.

The young player alternated between a central position and the right-wing spot he held earlier, which contributed to the Messi comparisons due to his knack for cutting inside and shooting or creating chances with his skilled left foot.

Guler has expressed a preference for playing centrally, where he can engage more with the game and make a tangible impact.

Alonso concurs, mentioning that the player "needs to be near the ball," and opted to assign him that position in Real’s recent two group matches—victories over Pachuca and RB Salzburg—while leaving Luka Modric, Dani Ceballos, and Brahim Diaz on the sidelines.

Given this opportunity, Guler delivered two impressive displays. After scoring a second goal against Pachuca, he played a crucial role in defeating the Austrian team, completing more passes than anyone else during his time on the pitch.

In both matches, Guler was substituted in the second half for Modric. This felt significant: the experienced player now in a supporting role, tasked with conserving energy for the one who has taken over his position.

Modric is set to depart Real after the Club World Cup, likely heading to AC Milan. Current observations suggest that Alonso has already begun his replacement.

Quality, mindset, and 'great things ahead'

Wolves manager Vitor Pereira is one of those who believe Guler will evolve into a global superstar – and he has a strong grasp of talent.

Pereira, a Portuguese coach, gave Guler his first professional match with Fenerbahce when he was merely 16 in 2021, and he recalls recognizing the young player's extraordinary skill right away.

"He reminded me of James Rodriguez when I coached him at 19, just starting at Porto," Pereira shared with the Spanish newspaper Marca last week. "Both possess remarkable talent."

"Guler was a young player among adults, yet each time he got the ball, he could deliver the decisive pass. If he slipped up, he would ask for the ball again to make amends."

Pereira thinks the comparison with Messi doesn’t hold much weight; instead, he aligns with the player and seemingly Alonso that he ought to play the central midfield position that Modric held.

"I always viewed him more as an eight or a 10 due to his ability to disrupt defenses across the lines," he added.

"He is clever, seeks out solutions prior to receiving the ball, and can execute both long and short passes. He can deliver the crucial pass or take a shot from distance."

"He comprehends the game well and strives to learn more. I can definitely envision him stepping into Modric's shoes."

Despite the challenges Guler faced last season, Pereira's optimism regarding his former player’s potential remains unfaltering.

"Joining Real Madrid, amidst so many high-quality players, can be tough," he concluded. "But he will carve out his role. I am confident that his future holds significant opportunities. He possesses the talent and mindset to emerge as a significant player."

Just a month into Alonso's leadership, that journey is already beginning.

If he performs well in the last-16 match against Juventus, it would further indicate Guler is poised to make a major impact in the football realm.