Despite recent performance improvements under Alvaro Arbeloa, Arda Guler is still unhappy with being a backup and the “invisible influences” inside the locker room.
According to Fichajes, Arda Guler has made his position clear: if next season he remains only a backup option in big matches, or if the club lacks a coach with enough “authority” to build a clear project, he is ready to close this chapter Real Madrid this summer. For Real, this is a “hot potato” because it touches both their immediate performance goals and directly affects the youth development strategy that President Florentino Perez has pursued for many years.
Guler is said to have taken advantage of the period Jude Bellingham was absent to prove his capabilities in his natural role: creative, playing between the lines, and making a difference with his skillful left foot. However, what frustrates him is not only the limited playing time but also the lack of trust shown by frequent substitutions and a personnel management style he believes does not match his current level.
From the player’s perspective, being repeatedly interrupted in his playing rhythm can hinder development, which is particularly sensitive for a talent at a stage where high-level experience accumulation is crucial.
Notably, sources also reveal that Guler has requested the club to provide information about the head coach for next season before he makes his final decision. The player’s demand is described as quite straightforward: a manager with significant influence, capable of leading the restructuring, and most importantly, committed to giving him a substantial role in the starting lineup. He does not want to spend another season watching important matches from the bench, regardless of the weight of the Real Madrid jersey.
Alongside professional factors, rumors have emerged that Guler has not fully integrated with his teammates at Real Madrid, affecting his mindset. Consequently, his consideration of options in Europe is reportedly becoming clearer. According to Transfermarkt, Guler is valued at €90 million. With three years left on his contract, teams interested in him would need to pay close to that valuation.
For Real Madrid, keeping Guler is not only about retaining a talent but also about preventing a potential rival from acquiring a “gem of the generation.” Therefore, the upcoming summer is expected to be decisive: either Real offers a satisfactory solution regarding playing time and role, or their number 15 will seek a new platform to shine in line with his ambitions.