Despite the recent 3-0 win over Real Valladolid, Real Madrid must prepare for a tough period ahead as the club look to deal with the absence of Jude Bellingham.
The Englishman is ruled out for at least a month due to a muscle problem. His absence could be consequential for Real Madrid, considering the creativity and attacking firepower the player used to provide in the final third.
Bellingham’s injury could see Carlo Ancelotti improvise and that is where Arda Guler comes into the fray.
More minutes for Arda Guler?
As reported by Diario AS, Carlo Ancelotti has hinted at an expanded role for Arda Guler this season, a development that comes as a relief to fans eager to see more of the Turkish prodigy.
With Jude Bellingham sidelined for a month due to injury, Ancelotti has a chance to shake up his lineup, providing Güler the opportunity to step into the spotlight.
Güler, 19, made his pre-season mark with appearances against AC Milan and in the Clasico against Barcelona.
Ancelotti sees a lot of versatility in the young midfielder.
“Arda’s best position is between the lines, he can be a number 10, he can be a right midfielder. In the future, he could be one of the three midfielders,” Ancelotti commented during Real Madrid’s US tour.
This tactical flexibility could be crucial for Güler as he looks to carve out more minutes on the pitch, especially given the intense competition in Madrid’s squad.
With creative talents like Bellingham, Rodrygo, Vinícius, Endrick, and Brahim Díaz all vying for starting spots, Ancelotti’s ability to rotate and find the right balance will be key.
The Italian manager’s approach seems to be paying off, with Güler already showing promise as a goal threat.
Despite limited playing time last season, he converted all six of his shots on goal into goals. Ancelotti has been clear about where he envisions Güler thriving: “He should not play on the left, with that left foot of his. If he has the opportunity to shoot, he should do it.”
With Bellingham’s injury, Güler may now have the chance to exceed his 440 minutes from last season. Ancelotti’s confidence in the young starlet could signal a breakthrough season for Güler, giving Madrid another creative force in their ranks.