Real Madrid secured a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Las Palmas, but the true headline wasn’t the late winner; it was Arda Güler’s long-awaited La Liga debut.
Entering in the 80th minute, the young Turk couldn’t quite light up the stage, but it marks a milestone for the attacking midfielder.
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The match itself was a rollercoaster for Ancelotti’s men. After struggling against Las Palmas’ spirited defense, a late Tchouameni header snatched the victory, erasing earlier concerns about potential slip-ups.
However, amidst the euphoria, Güler’s debut provided another layer of excitement.
His season, plagued by injuries, had kept him sidelined since August. Meniscus issues, followed by a niggling quadriceps problem, had delayed his La Liga baptism.
But against Las Palmas, he finally stepped onto the hallowed turf, replacing Rodrygo and injecting fresh legs into the late push for victory.
While Güler’s impact was minimal, his brief cameo offered glimpses of both promise and areas for improvement.
Three fouls committed and only five successful passes from ten touches suggest nerves and a need for adaptation.
Yet, it’s crucial to remember this wasn’t his first taste of Real Madrid action. He had featured in the Copa del Rey and even played minutes in the Supercopa semifinal.
His La Liga debut, however, carries a different weight. With big expectations riding on his young shoulders, Güler’s performance will be dissected and debated.
However, for Real Madrid fans, his mere presence on the pitch signifies a turning point. The Turkish wonderkid is finally here, and his journey within the white giant has officially begun.
The second half of the season promises fierce battles and crucial encounters. Real Madrid will need depth and resilience to navigate the challenges ahead.
And while Güler might not be ready to shoulder the responsibility just yet, his debut is a step towards unlocking his immense potential.