Xabi Alonso has lavished praise on Real Madrid midfielder Arda Guler, describing him as a 'mix between Mesut Ozil and Guti' ahead of their Champions League clash with Juventus. The Turkey international has impressed with his creativity and game intelligence, becoming a key figure in Alonso’s system as Madrid prepare for a crucial week which will include El Clasico against Barcelona.
Alonso praises Guler as a mix of legends
Madrid head coach Alonso singled out Turkey international Guler for special praise, comparing the 20-year-old to two of the club’s iconic midfielders, Ozil and Guti. Speaking ahead of Wednesday’s Champions League tie with Juventus, Alonso explained, "Not just because of his origins, but because of his quality. He's a mix between Ozil and Guti, because Guti could also play close to the crease while also providing that final pass. The more we find Arda, the better we do. We have to keep pushing him to improve his game, but I'm happy." This endorsement highlights Guler’s growing importance in Madrid’s midfield, combining vision, technical skill, and an eye for decisive passes.
AdvertisementAFPGuler's journey and influence on recent results
Guler’s performances have already started to make a tangible impact. During Real Madrid’s 1-0 victory over Getafe, the Turkey international came off the bench to assist Kylian Mbappe’s well-taken goal, demonstrating his creativity and ability to change games from midfield. Alonso has emphasised the need to nurture Guler’s talent while integrating him into a squad that also relies on Vinicius Junior and Mbappe for attacking impetus. The coach noted: "We need him for what's coming up. He needs to be very focused on what he has to do and what he does well."
Since his signing from Fenerbahce in July 2023, Guler, who has also been branded as 'Turkish Lionel Messi', has steadily integrated into the first team, earning a six-year contract lasting until June 2029. Initially featuring sporadically, he began playing more regularly under Alonso, scoring his first 2025-26 season goal in a 2-1 La Liga win over Mallorca. His performances earned him La Liga's Under-23 Player of the Month award for September, having contributed two goals and two assists. Alonso’s management has been key in developing Guler’s creativity and decision-making, allowing him to flourish alongside established stars in the squad.
Balancing talent and competition in midfield
Despite Guler’s rise, Alonso highlighted the fierce competition within his squad as players like Eduardo Camavinga and Brahim Diaz remain ready to challenge for midfield roles, while Endrick and other forwards are also pushing for minutes in the first team. Alonso commented: "We’re not at that point. The competition up front is intense, and you have to be ready for the moment. Also Gonzalo, Brahim… who are coming in or are about to come in. This is elite football; we need a lot of players." His remarks underscore how Guler must consistently perform to maintain a starting place in a star-studded Madrid roster.
Getty ImagesFocus turns to Champions League challenge
Los Blancos now turn their attention to Wednesday’s Champions League clash with Juventus at the Bernabeu. After securing back-to-back group-stage wins, including a 5-0 demolition of Kairat Almaty featuring a Mbappe hat-trick, Alonso’s side aim to maintain momentum while preparing for the first El Clasico of the season against Barcelona. Guler’s creativity and vision will be crucial in breaking down Juventus’ defense, as Madrid look to assert themselves both domestically and in Europe. With a demanding schedule ahead, Alonso’s careful management of key players like Guler, Militao, and Vinicius Jr will be decisive for the club’s ambitions this season, as they battle with key injuries.
Tudor’s side head to Madrid with little margin for error, having drawn their opening two group-stage matches under dramatic circumstances. Against Borussia Dortmund, Juventus conceded twice late but salvaged a 4-4 draw with stoppage-time goals, and in their following match, they suffered a similar fate when ex-Juve loanee Renato Veiga equalised for Villarreal in the final moments to make it 2-2. That result marked part of a five-match draw streak, their longest in nearly 20 years, while five of their last seven domestic and European fixtures have ended level. Away from home in Europe, Juventus have won just once in their last 11 matches, and they come to Spain off a 2-0 defeat to Como, leaving the team struggling for form and confidence.