Antalyaspor manager Emre Belözoğlu believes that Turkish phenom Arda Güler is poised for a significant breakthrough under new Real Madrid coach Xabi Alonso.
Speaking to AS, Belözoğlu expressed confidence that Alonso’s arrival will usher in a new, more prominent chapter for the young midfielder, who saw limited starts during Carlo Ancelotti’s recent tenure.
Güler, 19, concluded Ancelotti’s time at the helm with a respectable run of appearances, featuring in every other match towards the end of the season. However, his overall playing time across two seasons under the Italian was sparse.
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Belözoğlu, a former Turkish international himself, is convinced that Alonso’s philosophy will unlock Güler’s full potential. “With Xabi Alonso, we will witness a vastly different and more refined Arda Güler,” Belözoğlu stated. “He is destined to improve significantly.”
The Antalyaspor boss also offered insight into Güler’s resilient character, explaining why the highly-rated talent resisted loan moves. “I understand his personality,” Belözoğlu remarked. “He thrives on challenges and relishes overcoming obstacles. He enjoys navigating the most difficult situations.”
Belözoğlu further lauded the young player’s inherent ability, adding, “There are few players blessed with Arda Güler’s innate gift and extraordinary talent.” This powerful endorsement comes as Güler joins the Real Madrid squad for pre-season training in the United States, just days before their initial Club World Cup fixture against Al-Hilal.
Reports from within the Real Madrid camp suggest that Xabi Alonso has been positively surprised by Güler’s physical development, attributing it to the rigorous work put in under fitness coach Antonio Pintus. This physical maturation is expected to enable Güler to better withstand the demands of top-level football.
While the exact role Alonso envisions for Güler remains to be seen, the new coach’s past interest in securing the midfielder on loan for Bayer Leverkusen underscores his appreciation for Güler’s abilities.
Real Madrid’s consistent refusal to loan him out highlights the club’s profound belief in his long-term future at the Santiago Bernabéu.
Despite limited minutes previously, Güler’s impressive five goals and six assists reflect his efficiency and ability to make an impact whenever given the chance. With the Club World Cup providing an early platform for Alonso’s project, Arda Güler is certainly one to watch as he aims to carve out a pivotal role in this new era for Real Madrid.
