Real Madrid talent faces a decisive period after a disappointing World Cup

Real Madrid midfielder Arda Guler returned from the World Cup with more questions than answers. His Turkiye side ended their campaign earlier than expected, as Vincenzo Montella's side were eliminated after just two group stage matches. There are high hopes for this team, and much of that expectation rests on Guler's shoulders. However, they suffered a surprise defeat to Australia before controlling the match but were unable to score against Paraguay, a result that forced them to return home early.

Now, according to AS, for Guler, this tournament ends with sadness and opens the door to what could be the most important season of his career. The 2025/26 season has brought a breakthrough for the 20-year-old. Although he sometimes struggled to maintain consistency, Guler played more than 3,000 minutes and contributed 6 goals and 14 assists for Real Madrid. At times, he was Los Blancos' only midfielder capable of breaking down tight defences, something the team has struggled with since Toni Kroos left.


However, the context has changed. Real Madrid are strengthening their midfield and with the arrival of Bernardo Silva from Manchester City, Guler will have to compete harder for a starting spot. Bernardo's joining gives Jose Mourinho another quality option, and this player is expected to have a slight advantage, as it was the coach who pushed for his signing. This does not mean that Guler has been eliminated from Mourinho's plans. If there's one positive to come from Turkiye's early exit, it's that the youngster will have more time to work with Mourinho before the season starts.

Turkiye's final group stage match against the USMNT in Los Angeles on June 25 marked the end of his international assignment. After a short break, he is expected to return in mid-July, shortly after Real Madrid's training season begins on July 13. This time is a valuable opportunity for Guler to build a relationship with Mourinho and fight for his position before the new season begins.

Guler has shown he has the talent to succeed at Real Madrid. The challenge now is to prove that he can do that consistently while competing against a deeper and more experienced midfield. With the arrival of Bernardo and the possibility of further reinforcements to the midfield, chances could become more difficult. But with Mourinho waiting on the training ground and already confident in his talent, Guler will have the chance to show his ability from the start.