Arda Güler has been sidelined for several matches, sparking growing frustration and confusion over Carlo Ancelotti’s choices. However, the reason behind the 19-year-old’s absence has now come to light.
Despite making headlines, it’s not for his performances on the pitch. Once regarded as one of La Liga’s most promising young talents upon joining Real Madrid, Güler has yet to cement his place in the squad. Earlier in the season, he saw regular game time due to injuries to Brahim Díaz and Rodrygo Goes. Just when it seemed he had earned Ancelotti’s trust, things took an unexpected turn in early 2025. Over Madrid’s last five matches, the Turkish midfielder has not played a single minute.
The Reasons Behind Güler’s Decline: What Ancelotti Criticizes About the 19-Year-Old
Frustration continues to grow over Arda Güler’s lack of playing time at Real Madrid, with Turkish analysts even urging him to leave the club for more minutes on the pitch. Despite the ongoing debate, Carlo Ancelotti once again left the young midfielder on the bench during Madrid’s 2-0 victory over Girona in La Liga’s 25th round. As Güler fades further into the background, questions about his situation are intensifying.
When asked about Güler’s absence, Ancelotti offered little insight, simply stating that the 19-year-old was “ready to play.” However, Spanish outlet Relevo has provided a clearer picture. According to their report, Madrid’s coaching staff was disappointed with Güler’s last performance—his outing against Leganés in the Copa del Rey quarter-finals.
Despite his undeniable attacking talent, Güler’s defensive shortcomings have raised concerns. His display against Leganés failed to meet the coaching staff’s expectations, leading to his continued exclusion from the squad. At Real Madrid, where the competition is fierce and the standards are exceptionally high, the young Turkish midfielder still has much to prove. Moreover, Ancelotti’s track record suggests he is not particularly inclined to place trust in young players, making Güler’s path to regular minutes even more challenging.
What Lies Ahead for Arda Güler?
Now that the reasons behind Arda Güler’s struggles are clear, it’s evident that patience and hard work will be crucial for his future at Real Madrid. With the season entering a decisive phase filled with high-stakes matches, it seems unlikely that Carlo Ancelotti will change his plans for the young midfielder anytime soon. However, if Güler improves his positioning and defensive contributions, he might get playing time in games where Madrid has already secured a comfortable lead.
In the worst-case scenario, Güler may need to consider leaving the club—at least temporarily—to gain more minutes on the pitch. A loan move, similar to Nico Paz’s switch to Como in Serie A, could provide him with the game time he needs to develop. If he chooses to stay, he must remain patient and fight for his place, following the example of Brahim Díaz, who has earned Ancelotti’s trust by proving his value both offensively and defensively.
