Before the semi-final against PSG, Bellingham gave Real Madrid an ultimatum: “Either me or that 20-year-old kid,” which infuriated Arda Güler. Xabi Alonso immediately responded with a harsh response.
Tensions are running high at Real Madrid as the club prepares for a crucial FIFA Club World Cup semi-final clash against Paris Saint-Germain. A dramatic ultimatum from the English midfielder has brought to light an alleged rift between two of the team’s brightest stars, Jude Bellingham and Arda Guler. According to sources close to the squad, Bellingham has confronted Real Madrid’s board and demanded a choice between himself and 20-year-old Turkish sensation Arda Guler for a starting spot for the upcoming match. The bold statement has caused frustration among the squad, especially Guler, who has been performing outstandingly under new manager Xabi Alonso. Alonso, in turn, has sent a strong message in an attempt to calm the dispute and refocus the squad on their common goal.
The drama follows Real Madrid’s thrilling 3-2 victory over Borussia Dortmund in the Club World Cup quarter-finals, a match that showcased the club’s depth and talent but also exposed underlying tensions. A key figure in midfield, Bellingham has been a key pillar in Alonso’s system since the Spaniard took over as manager in June 2025. However, his recent performances have been marred by occasional disciplinary issues, including a heated argument with Alonso during the Dortmund match in which he was warned to oppose the referees to avoid penalties. Despite his undeniable talent, Bellingham’s frustration appears to stem from the increasing importance of Guler, who has become a key cog in Alonso’s creative system.
Having struggled for minutes under former manager Carlo Ancelotti, Guler has excelled under Alonso. The young Turk has started all of Real Madrid’s recent Club World Cup matches, earning praise for his vision, passing accuracy, and ability to influence games. Against Dortmund, Guler provided two assists, including the game-winning cross for Kylian Mbappé, and completed 65 of 68 passes, demonstrating his growing influence. His performances have led Alonso to prefer him over established stars like Rodrygo and have sparked speculation about a new era in Real Madrid’s midfield. However, his rapid rise has unsettled Bellingham, who reportedly feels his role is under threat due to the youngster.
Bellingham’s ultimatum, which reportedly demanded the club choose between him and Guler for the starting lineup against PSG, sent shockwaves through the squad. According to sources, Guler was enraged upon learning of the statement and interpreted it as a direct attack on his contribution. Tension between the two players first erupted during a friendly against Juventus, when Guler publicly criticized Bellingham for his lack of defensive effort, which caught Alonso’s attention. The manager quickly intervened to emphasize the importance of unity and warn against egos disrupting team harmony. Despite the clash, both players appeared to have learned their lesson, with Guler continuing to shine and Bellingham putting in solid performances in midfield.
Alonso’s response to the latest controversy has been, as always, decisive. Speaking to the media before the semifinal against PSG, the coach made it clear that no player is superior to the team. “We played better with Arda, but Jude is a leader in his own right. It’s not about choosing one over the other; it’s about what’s best for Real Madrid,” Alonso declared, firmly rejecting Bellingham’s ultimatum. He emphasized the need for both players to coexist, highlighting that Guler’s development has been a process requiring patience and Bellingham’s role as the driving force of the squad. Alonso’s approach reflects the philosophy of building a cohesive team, building on his successful time at Bayer Leverkusen, where he balanced young talent with established stars.
The upcoming match against PSG further complicates the situation. With Kylian Mbappé’s goal against Dortmund and key defender Dean Huijsen suspended due to a red card, Alonso faces crucial decisions regarding his squad. Huijsen’s absence will likely force a defensive shift, with Raúl Asencio replacing Antonio Rüdiger. Meanwhile, the midfield battle will be crucial, with Guler’s creativity and Bellingham’s dynamism essential against a formidable PSG side. Fans and analysts are eager to see how Alonso manages this internal conflict while maintaining Real Madrid’s momentum.
As the semifinals approach, attention will focus on whether Bellingham and Guler can put aside their differences for the greater good. Alonso’s leadership will be tested not only in his ego management but also in his masterful tactical display against PSG. For now, the coach’s emphatic response has set the tone: at Real Madrid, the team comes first, and no ultimatum can derail their pursuit of the Club World Cup title.