Arda Güler’s future at Real Madrid has been the subject of growing speculation, with the 19-year-old Turkish playmaker’s limited game time at the Spanish giants prompting calls for a move to Manchester United.
Güler, who joined Los Blancos from Fenerbahçe in the summer of 2023 for a reported €30 million, has found it challenging to secure a regular spot in the starting XI, despite his undoubted talent. As the young star continues to develop, former Manchester United striker Louis Saha has suggested that a move to Old Trafford could be the key to unlocking Güler’s full potential.
Güler’s technical brilliance and creativity were on full display during his time at Fenerbahçe and at the UEFA Euro 2024, where his performances earned widespread acclaim. However, at Real Madrid, competition for places in the midfield is fierce, and Güler has yet to make the impact expected at a club of Madrid’s stature. With just 12 appearances to his name so far this season and no goals or assists, Güler is yet to make a significant mark in the Spanish capital.
1. Saha’s Advice: Prioritize Playing Time Over Madrid’s Prestige
Louis Saha, who enjoyed a successful stint at Manchester United during the mid-2000s, has called on Güler to consider prioritizing game time in order to reach his true potential. “Manchester United have lots they could offer Arda Güler, including more playing time than he gets at Real Madrid currently,” Saha said in a recent interview with The Manchester Evening News (MEN). “United need that type of playmaker who plays with freedom, and it’s very difficult for young players to get that at Real Madrid, especially in midfield. He could thrive at United with that opportunity.”
Saha’s words highlight the contrast between the playing philosophies at Madrid and Manchester United. While Madrid offers a higher level of competition and a more tactical approach, United’s need for a creative playmaker could offer Güler a platform to shine. The former striker emphasized the importance of young players getting the freedom to express themselves and develop at their own pace, something that could be more readily available at United.
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2. Güler’s Vision and Creativity: A Perfect Fit for United’s Needs
Manchester United’s midfield has long been in need of a player capable of dictating play and providing the crucial final ball. With Bruno Fernandes often operating as the main creator, the addition of a player like Güler could add an extra layer of creativity to Erik ten Hag’s side. Saha believes that Güler has the qualities to be that player, especially after his impressive performances at Euro 2024.
“He needs to play to reach his potential and maybe a loan would suit him,” Saha continued. “He is a very clever player. United need someone who can provide chances to players like Bruno Fernandes and Rasmus Højlund, they need a player who is capable of playing that final pass and that could be him.”
Saha’s remarks underscore the potential synergy between Güler and United’s attacking players, with the Turkish international offering a fresh avenue for playmaking. Given United’s need for a creative spark in the midfield, Güler could seamlessly slot into a system that values dynamic, forward-thinking football.
3. Real Madrid’s Stance: Güler’s Potential is Undeniable
Despite Güler’s relative lack of game time at Real Madrid, the Spanish giants are reportedly committed to his long-term development. Madrid sees the Turkish midfielder as a player with immense potential, and their patience with him could pay off in the future. However, Güler’s slow integration into the team raises questions about whether he will ever become a regular starter at a club that demands the highest standards.
Real Madrid’s manager, Carlo Ancelotti, has typically favored experience in the midfield, often opting for established players like Luka Modrić, Toni Kroos, and Federico Valverde over younger options like Güler. This has left the talented playmaker with limited opportunities to show what he can do, something that could hinder his growth as a player if the situation persists.
4. A Loan Move: The Best Path for Güler’s Development?
Given his lack of minutes at Real Madrid, a loan move has been touted as a possible solution for Güler. Such a move could allow the young midfielder to gain regular playing time, develop his skills, and return to Madrid ready to challenge for a first-team spot. Manchester United, among other top clubs, has reportedly shown interest in securing Güler on loan, with the added benefit of providing the Turkish talent with more exposure to European football.
While Güler’s long-term future may still lie at Madrid, a loan to a club like Manchester United could prove to be an invaluable step in his career. At Old Trafford, Güler would have the chance to play in one of Europe’s top leagues, develop his tactical understanding, and refine his craft in a team that could use his creative abilities.
5. Competition for Güler’s Signature: Premier League Giants in the Mix
It’s not just Manchester United that is keeping an eye on Güler’s situation. According to reports, Premier League rivals Liverpool, Arsenal, and Manchester City have also expressed interest in the Turkish international. The growing interest from some of England’s biggest clubs suggests that Güler’s time at Real Madrid could be coming to a crossroads.
However, the financial aspects of securing Güler’s signature may complicate matters. Real Madrid’s valuation of the player, combined with the €30 million transfer fee they paid to Fenerbahçe last summer, makes a permanent transfer unlikely at this stage. A loan deal appears to be the most realistic option for any club looking to sign Güler in the near future.
6. Madrid’s Long-Term Vision for Güler: A Star in the Making
Despite his limited appearances, Real Madrid still sees Güler as a future star. Los Blancos’ investment in the young talent suggests they believe he can be an integral part of the team moving forward. With a number of veteran midfielders at Madrid, Güler’s development might take time, and the club could be betting on his potential to emerge as a key figure in the coming years.
Güler’s technical skills, vision, and ability to read the game make him a player with elite potential, and Real Madrid may be content to take a patient approach with him. However, for the 19-year-old to reach his potential, he will need more minutes and experience in competitive matches – something that may be difficult to come by at a club as star-studded as Madrid.
7. Manchester United’s Midfield Overhaul Under Ruben Amorim
The recent appointment of Ruben Amorim as Manchester United’s manager could significantly alter the club’s approach to transfers and tactical setup. Amorim’s reputation for developing young talent and implementing an attacking style of play makes him an ideal coach for a player like Güler, who thrives in creative, free-flowing systems.
Under Amorim’s guidance, Güler could flourish in a role that allows him to showcase his vision and playmaking abilities, particularly in a United team that has struggled to find the right balance in midfield. With the Portuguese coach known for his ability to nurture young talent, Güler could find a long-term home at United, where his skills would be appreciated and developed.
8. The Future of Arda Güler: A Bright Path Ahead
Whether Güler stays at Real Madrid, moves to Manchester United, or takes a loan elsewhere, it’s clear that his future in football is incredibly promising. With a blend of technical ability, footballing intelligence, and a solid work ethic, Güler has the makings of a star player in the making.
His decision in the coming months will shape his career trajectory. A move to Manchester United, or any other club willing to give him the platform to grow, could be the catalyst for his breakout season. Whatever path he chooses, Arda Güler is undoubtedly a player to watch in the years to come.
Conclusion: Güler’s Next Step in His Career
As Arda Güler navigates his early career, the decision to leave Real Madrid for a club like Manchester United could be pivotal. With his potential still untapped, playing regular football in a system that encourages creativity and freedom could be the key to unlocking his true capabilities. Whether a loan or permanent transfer, Güler’s next move will be crucial in his development and future success on the European stage.
