Arda Güler spent all the bonus money he earned at Real Madrid last season on helping orphans in his native Turkey. President Pérez then uttered twelve noble words that no other Real Madrid player has ever heard.

In a touching display of generosity, Real Madrid’s 20-year-old Turkish star Arda Güler has made headlines not only for his burgeoning talent on the pitch, but also for his extraordinary philanthropy off it. The young midfielder, whose talent and vision have captivated football fans around the world, recently donated his entire 2024-2025 season bonus to support orphans in his native Turkey. This selfless act has earned him great admiration. Real Madrid president Florentino Pérez described Güler’s actions with 12 words that resonated deeply within the football community: “A noble heart, a true champion, inspires the spirit of Madrid.”

Güler’s journey to becoming one of football’s brightest talents is well documented. Born in Ankara, Turkey, on February 25, 2005, Güler rose through the ranks at hometown club Gençlerbirliği, catching the eye of Fenerbahçe, and began his professional career at just 16 years old. His move to Real Madrid in 2023, for an initial fee of €20 million, marked a significant turning point not only for Güler, but also for Turkish football, becoming a symbol of hope for a new generation of players. Despite initial challenges, including injuries that sidelined him for much of his debut season, Güler’s resilience and talent shone through under his new manager, Xabi Alonso. His performances in the second half of the 2024-2025 season, including six goals in ten LaLiga matches and two assists at the Club World Cup, cemented his place in the squad and earned him a significant bonus.

But what truly set Güler apart was his decision to donate this financial reward. Turkey, a country that holds a special place in Güler’s heart, has faced significant challenges in recent years, including the devastating 2023 earthquake that devastated countless families. Many children were orphaned and struggled to access basic needs like education and healthcare. Deeply moved by their plight, Güler decided to allocate his winnings to a cause close to his heart. He has partnered with a Turkish foundation dedicated to providing educational resources and sports equipment to underprivileged children, particularly the orphans of Ankara. His donation is expected to fund scholarships, rebuild school facilities, and implement sports programs that generate hope and opportunities for these young people.

This act of generosity is not Güler’s first foray into philanthropy. Following the 2023 earthquake, he was one of the first athletes to contribute to relief efforts, using his platform to raise international awareness. Real Madrid’s ongoing commitment to community initiatives, which prioritize social integration through football, further strengthens his commitment to solidarity. Those close to him often speak of his unwavering humility and strong family values, despite his meteoric rise to fame. Raised in a modest home in Ankara’s Altındağ district, Güler learned the importance of community and support from a young age, and these lessons continue to influence his actions today.

The football world has recognized Güler’s generosity. Fans on social media, especially in Turkey, have hailed him as a role model, with many calling him “the pride of Turkey.” His actions have also sparked a broader debate about the role of athletes in solving social problems. In Turkey, there has been a reported increase in youth enrollment in football academies, and Güler’s success and character have inspired countless young players to pursue their dreams with compassion.

Florentino Pérez’s exceptional and emotional tribute underscores the significance of Güler’s actions. Known for his selective leadership, Pérez rarely remembers players with such effusive words, making this 12-word tribute a historic moment for Real Madrid. The statement, made in a private team address, was later shared by the Spanish newspaper Marca and sparked widespread debate. It reflects not only Güler’s influence as a player, but also his ability to embody the values of a club that prides itself on excellence both on and off the field.

Under Alonso’s guidance, Güler integrated naturally into Real Madrid’s midfield, demonstrating his versatility and creativity. His ability to dictate play and his newly acquired physique silenced skeptics who questioned his readiness for the elite. However, his contributions off the pitch leave an indelible mark. By donating his cousin’s money to orphans, Güler showed that his heart is as big as his talent, thus earning a place not only in Real Madrid history but also in the hearts of those he helped. Arda Güler continues to shine as a footballer and philanthropist, proving that true greatness goes far beyond the pitch.