Arda Güler

Arda Güler, a 20-year-old Turkish footballer and attacking midfielder for Real Madrid and the Turkish national team, is often dubbed the "Turkish Messi" for his dribbling and vision on the pitch. In 2025, he captivates fans and analysts with his performances in La Liga and the UEFA Champions League. This article explores his biography, football career, achievements, and prospects for the current season.

Early Years and Career Beginnings

Arda Güler was born on February 25, 2005, in Ankara, Turkey. He showed an early passion for football, starting his journey at the youth academy of local club Gençlerbirliği in 2014. At age 13, he caught the attention of Fenerbahçe’s scouts and joined their youth system in 2019. By 2021, Güler signed his first professional contract with Fenerbahçe, debuting for the senior team at just 16. His performances in the club’s youth teams, where he scored 7 goals and provided 4 assists in 18 matches, drew interest from Europe’s top clubs.

Move to Real Madrid

In July 2023, Güler transferred to Real Madrid for €20 million, becoming the first Turkish player in the club’s history. His La Liga debut came in 2024, but injuries, including knee and thigh issues, limited his playing time in his first season. Despite this, he showed promise, making his Champions League debut on September 17, 2024, in a 3:1 win against Stuttgart.

In the 2024/2025 season, Güler began featuring more regularly under new manager Xabi Alonso. He scored the winning goal in a 1:0 victory over Getafe on April 23, 2025, earning Player of the Match honors, and contributed a goal and an assist in a 3:2 win against Celta Vigo on May 4. His first goal of the season for Real Madrid came on August 30, 2025, in a 2:1 win over Mallorca, where he was again named Player of the Match.

Achievements and Playing Style

Güler became the first Turkish footballer to win the UEFA Champions League with Real Madrid in 2024. His playing style is defined by exceptional dribbling, precise passing, and the ability to create scoring opportunities. Analysts highlight his versatility, as he can play as an attacking midfielder or right winger. Despite limited minutes, his market value in 2025 is estimated at €45 million, underscoring his potential.

Challenges and Obstacles

Güler’s primary challenge remains securing consistent playing time. Early in 2025, rumors surfaced about a potential departure from Real Madrid due to competition from stars like Vinícius Júnior and Jude Bellingham. However, under Xabi Alonso, he has earned more opportunities, particularly in cup competitions. For instance, on January 6, 2025, he scored twice in a 5:0 Copa del Rey win against Deportivo Minera, and on January 17, he provided two assists in a 5:2 victory over Celta Vigo.

Prospects in 2025

In the 2025/2026 season, Güler aims to cement his place in Real Madrid’s starting lineup and make an impact in the UEFA Champions League, which now uses the Swiss system format. His performances for Turkey at Euro 2024, where he displayed leadership qualities, fuel optimism. Fans and analysts expect him to become a key figure for both club and country, given his young age and potential.

Conclusion

Arda Güler is a rising star in world football, whose talent and determination make him a key hope for Turkey and Real Madrid. Despite challenges with injuries and competition, he continues to progress. In 2025, Güler stands on the cusp of new achievements, and his career promises to be one of the brightest in modern football.