‘Arda Güler: The Turkish Messi Ready to Replace Modric at Real Madrid’

‘Turkish Messi’ Güler Ready to Replace Modric at Real Madrid

As Real Madrid prepare for their Club World Cup last-16 clash against Juventus (Tuesday, 20:00 BST), a new star is quietly emerging under Xabi Alonso — and he’s wearing the number 24 shirt. Nicknamed the ‘Turkish Messi’, Arda Güler is showing signs that he could be Luka Modric’s long-term successor at the heart of Real’s midfield.

The 20-year-old is already looking like one of Alonso’s key players, thriving after a frustrating spell under Carlo Ancelotti.

Güler’s Lost Season Under Ancelotti

The 2024–25 campaign began with promise for Güler. After an impressive end to the previous La Liga season — scoring six goals in 10 appearances — and a stunning long-range goal at Euro 2024, expectations were high.

Yet, Güler spent most of the season on the bench. Despite his potential, Ancelotti rarely used him in high-stakes matches, including Real’s Champions League quarter-final exit to Arsenal, where Güler remained an unused substitute. By the season’s end, he had played fewer than 1,800 minutes, sparking rumours of a possible departure.

But Alonso’s arrival changed everything.

A Central Role – and a Symbolic Transition

One of Alonso’s first decisions was to deploy Güler centrally, a role the player himself prefers. No longer floating out wide, Güler has flourished in matches against Pachuca and RB Salzburg, scoring once and controlling play from midfield.

Each time, Modric replaced him late in the match — a symbolic passing of the torch. With Modric set to join AC Milan after the Club World Cup, the message is clear: Real’s midfield future lies with Güler.

“He needs to be close to the ball,” Alonso stated, reaffirming his commitment to playing Güler in his favoured central role.

From Istanbul Prodigy to Madrid Protagonist

Vítor Pereira, now manager of Wolves, gave Güler his senior debut at Fenerbahçe at just 16. The Portuguese coach likens him more to James Rodríguez than Messi, pointing to his intelligence and final-third decision-making.

“I always saw him more as an eight or ten,” said Pereira. “He’s got the intelligence, technique, and mentality to become a main protagonist.”

Even after a tough year, Pereira sees nothing but upside.

“Coming to Real Madrid isn’t easy. But he’ll find his place. His future has big things in store.”

What’s Next for Güler?

With Modric’s exit imminent and Alonso building a younger, more dynamic side, Güler’s time appears to have arrived. If he continues to impress — especially against Juventus — he could take a giant step toward becoming one of the world’s elite playmakers.