The 2025/26 season has been quite perplexing and frustrating for Arda Güler.
After a promising start, the Turkish international has found himself losing visibility as the season progressed, leading to uncertainty regarding his role and future at the club.
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Initially, Güler was a regular feature under new Real Madrid manager Xabi Alonso, appearing to enjoy the coach’s confidence.
His technical skills and ability to maneuver in tight spaces fit well within the team’s tactics at that time.
However, as the campaign continued, his impact diminished. Güler struggled to secure playing time, and his influence on matches waned.
The change in management did not immediately favor him. With Álvarez Arbeloa taking over, there was hope for a reset, yet Güler’s situation remained ambiguous.
He began the new era with a disappointing 2-3 loss against Albacete, and in his next La Liga match against Levante, he started on the bench.
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A Crucial Turning Point
This match became a critical point in Güler’s season. Following a lackluster first half, Arbeloa brought him on after the break in search of renewed energy.
Güler is poised for a significant role under Arbeloa. (Photo by Denis Doyle/Getty Images)
The impact was instant. Real Madrid began to move the ball swiftly, creating chances that had previously been lacking, and managed to find the net.
The real affirmation of Güler’s revival came in the subsequent match. Back at the Santiago Bernabéu, Real Madrid took on AS Monaco, and Güler was included in the starting lineup.
According to MARCA, Arbeloa’s decision made it clear that he sees Güler as the key playmaker in the squad.
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Renewed Confidence
Against Monaco, Güler looked closer to his peak form. He dropped deep to assist in playmaking under pressure, while also getting into offensive positions during Madrid’s attacks.
Arbeloa’s system demands more from him than ever before. He is now expected to both create scoring opportunities with his passes and contribute defensively, especially during transitions and in structuring the midfield.
Significantly, Arbeloa seems to believe that Güler is the only player capable of consistently fulfilling this pivotal role, particularly since no other player stepped into the void during Alonso’s final matches.
With renewed trust and a defined tactical role, Güler has the opportunity to stabilize his season and establish himself as a vital component of Real Madrid’s midfield.