The football world has been rocked by news that has put the spotlight on young Turkish talent Arda Güler and his situation at Real Madrid. In an unexpected twist, Real Madrid has promised the 20-year-old playmaker a crucial role for the remainder of the 2024-25 season and the upcoming Club World Cup, following a high-voltage meeting with his agents, who issued an ultimatum that has left everyone speechless: either he is given more prominence, or they will find a new team for the Ottoman gem.

Arda Güler arrived at the Santiago Bernabéu in the summer of 2023 with the reputation of being one of the most promising players in European football. Coming from Fenerbahçe, where he already wore the number 10 shirt at 18 years old, his €20 million signing (which could rise to €30 million with bonuses) was seen as a future investment by Real Madrid. However, his journey at the club hasn’t been the dream. Injuries, fierce competition in midfield, and Carlo Ancelotti’s tactical decisions have limited his participation, accumulating just 1,088 minutes in 30 matches this season, with only 10 starts.

Despite his flashes of quality—three goals and five assists this season—the lack of consistency has generated frustration for both the player and those around him. In Turkey, where Güler is a national idol, fans don’t understand why their star doesn’t shine regularly at Real Madrid. This pressure reached its peak when the player’s agents, in a meeting with the Real Madrid board, strongly expressed their discontent, describing the treatment he received as “unacceptable” and threatening to explore options at other elite clubs, such as AC Milan, Inter, and even Bayern Munich.

The ultimatum from Güler’s representatives did not go unnoticed. According to sources close to the club, Real Madrid, aware of the Turk’s potential and his market value—estimated at €16 million, the fourth highest among players his age—decided to act quickly to avoid a crisis. At the meeting, the directors promised the player a more prominent role in key matches in La Liga, the Champions League, and, especially, the 2025 Club World Cup, where Real Madrid hopes to consolidate its dominance. This promise not only seeks to appease Güler and his entourage, but also to reaffirm the club’s confidence in his ability to become a global star.

Güler’s talent is undeniable. Classified as a “playing winger” for his tendency to occupy interior positions, his magical left foot, vision, and ability to break defensive lines, he has been compared to figures such as Mesut Özil. His debut for Real Madrid against Arandina CF in 2024 showcased his mobility, tactical intelligence, and personality, even under the pressure of playing for a club of Madrid’s stature. However, the presence of Jude Bellingham as the absolute master of the attacking midfield, along with competition from players such as Brahim Díaz, Luka Modric, and Dani Ceballos, has complicated his integration into Ancelotti’s system.

Despite the obstacles, Güler isn’t giving up. In a recent interview with MARCA , the Turkish player expressed his determination: “Madrid gave me a plan, and I still believe in it. I’m sure I’ll succeed at Madrid; I’ve even bought a house in Madrid.” His confidence in the Real Madrid project, coupled with the support of the fans, who adore him for his humility and quality, could be the push he needs to make the final leap.

Ancelotti’s challenge will be to find a place for Güler in a star-studded squad. Some analysts suggest that his versatility—he can play as an attacking midfielder, right winger, or even an inside midfielder—makes him an ideal wild card, especially in a busy schedule that includes the Club World Cup. Others, however, warn that if the promise of more minutes isn’t met, the patience of Güler and his agents could run out, opening the door to a loan or even a permanent exit.

For now, Real Madrid has managed to calm the waters, but the pressure is on Güler and the club. Can the young Turk seize this opportunity to prove he’s the future of Real Madrid? Or will this be the prelude to an early departure? The Santiago Bernabéu is eagerly awaiting its jewel to shine, and the football world is keeping a close eye on him. The next move belongs to Arda Güler.