“ SINCE I BECAME A COACH UNTIL NOW, I HAVE NEVER SEEN A PLAYER AS TALENTED AS HIM” Coach Marcelino García Toral was completely amazed by the high-level performance of a Real Madrid star in the 2-0 victory against Villarreal. It should be noted that this player was not Mbappé or Vinícius, but a name that very few could imagine.

After Real Madrid’s resounding 2-0 victory over Villarreal in La Liga, Villarreal coach Marcelino García Toral was amazed. The match, played at the Estadio de la Cerámica, saw Real Madrid dominate with goals from Federico Valverde and Vinicius Junior. However, it was not these established stars who caught Marcelino’s attention. Instead, he highlighted a young Turkish sensation whose performance redefined brilliance on the pitch. Arda Güler, the 19-year-old Fenerbahçe midfielder who signed for Real Madrid in 2023, offered a masterclass that night.

Playing in an advanced position, Güler demonstrated exquisite vision, precise passing and an uncanny ability to read defences. His involvement in build-up plays and key interceptions revealed a maturity beyond his years. Marcelino, with more than two decades as a coach, confessed that he had never witnessed such pure talent in a single player. Marcelino’s praise did not surprise those who followed Güler’s career. Since arriving at the Santiago Bernabéu, injuries had initially slowed his progress under Carlo Ancelotti. However, his potential was glimpsed in brief appearances.

His left leg, often compared to Lionel Messi’s, generated magical moments, including a stunning long-range goal against Real Sociedad in 2024 that announced his arrival. As the 2024-2025 season progressed, Güler began to establish himself in the squad. With the departure of Ancelotti and the arrival of Xabi Alonso in charge, the young Turk found more opportunities. Alonso’s tactical setup, which prioritized fluidity in midfield, suited Güler’s style perfectly.

He contributed five goals and nine assists in all competitions, helping Madrid to another League title and reach the semifinals of the Champions League. Coming into the 2025-2026 season, expectations for Güler were high. At 20 years old, he had gained muscle mass and perfected his defenses. Under Alonso, he started 15 of the first 20 league games, accumulating 1,205 minutes of play. His statistics were impressive: two goals, six assists and 35 chances created.

Güler’s ability to set the pace from midfield made him indispensable. A key moment came in the rematch against Villarreal in January 2026. Real Madrid again won 2-0, with Kylian Mbappé scoring both goals. Güler, starting as number 10, created three chances, completed 51 of 58 passes and won six duels. His performance echoed the one that had astonished Marcelino years before, reaffirming his growth as a world-class talent. Midway through the season, Real Madrid underwent another coaching change.

Alonso went on to lead the Spanish team, and former defender Álvaro Arbeloa made the jump from the youth team. Arbeloa, known for his emphasis on developing promising young players, immediately entrusted Güler with the role of playmaker. This decision paid off, as Güler shone with the new responsibility. Under Arbeloa, Güler’s performance improved even further. In 27 games between LaLiga and the Champions League, he scored three goals and gave ten assists. His passing accuracy was around 92% and he created 44 chances.

In defense, he won 70 duels and made 23 tackles, showing a complete game that refuted previous criticisms about his performance.

Güler’s international career with Türkiye also flourished. Leading the national team in qualifying for Euro 2024, he scored crucial goals against strong rivals such as Germany and Italy. By 2026, he had 15 international matches, with seven goals and eight assists. His leadership helped Turkey qualify for the World Cup, where he was considered a breakout star. Off the field, Güler’s humility endeared him to fans. He bought a house in Madrid, which shows his commitment to the club.

The interviews revealed his dedication: “Real Madrid gave me a plan and I fully believe in it.” His work ethic, which combined physical training with mental preparation, set him apart from his peers. Comparisons to legends such as Mesut Özil persisted, given their shared Turkish heritage and prowess as a playmaker. However, Güler forged his own path. His 50% dribbling success rate and key passes per game (around 2.5) placed him among Europe’s elite midfielders.

Scouts highlighted his versatility, capable of playing as a winger or as a midfielder. The challenges persisted. Injuries, although less frequent, still posed risks. Competition with stars like Jude Bellingham and Mbappé meant constant pressure to perform. However, Güler’s adaptability shined in crucial games, such as the 3-1 victory over Barcelona, ​​where he provided two assists and scored the winning goal. Marcelino’s words in that momentous match against Villarreal in 2024 resonated more than ever in 2026.

“Since I have been a coach until now, I have never seen a player as talented as him,” he had said, without being able to believe his eyes. Güler’s career confirmed that statement, transforming himself from a promising youngster into a maestro of Madrid’s midfield. Looking ahead, Güler’s market value skyrocketed to €68.5 million. Clubs such as Manchester City and Paris Saint-Germain sparked interest, but he remained loyal. “I’m here to win everything,” he declared.

Under Arbeloa’s guidance, Real Madrid aspired to the treble, with Güler at the center of their ambitions. His story inspired young talents from around the world. From the streets of Istanbul to the grandeur of Madrid, Güler’s rise was an example of perseverance. The Turkish fans nicknamed him “The Golden Boy”, while the Real Madrid fans chanted his name. The praise for Marcelino, who was previously a starter, now seemed to fall short. As the season progressed, Güler continued to break records.

He became the youngest player to reach 20 goals in a La Liga season with Madrid. His long passes and his command of set pieces reinforced the team’s attack, complementing forwards like Vinicius and Mbappé. Critics who previously doubted his physique now praised his resilience. Training with Arbeloa focused on endurance, which resulted in fewer substitutions. Güler’s 62 recoveries in the season underlined his defensive evolution, turning him into a complete midfielder. In Champions League matches, Güler’s composure stood out.

Against Bayern Munich, he orchestrated a comeback with a sublime assist. Such performances earned him praise from his teammates, with Bellingham calling him “a genius on the ball.” Güler’s influence extended beyond statistics. He was a mentor to young players from the quarry, sharing the lessons of their rapid rise. His charity work in Türkiye, supporting youth football programs, increased his international appeal. By mid-2026, Güler’s career path was pointing skyward. Marcelino’s initial astonishment had turned into widespread recognition.

Once a revelation, the young star’s talent was now a cornerstone of Real Madrid’s success. Reflecting on his career, Güler kept his feet on the ground. “Talent is just the beginning; hard work defines you.” His story, from Fenerbahçe prodigy to Madrid pillar, captivated the football world. Marcellin’s words resonated like a fulfilled prophecy. With the World Cup just around the corner, Güler was preparing to shine on the biggest stage. His combination of skill, vision and determination promised further achievement.

Real Madrid, fueled by their brilliance, aspired to continued dominance in Europe and beyond.