Inside the rising Turkish star’s journey at Real Madrid and his growing connection with France’s football phenomenon.
In an exclusive and heartfelt interview with L’Equipe Magazine, Turkish prodigy Arda Güler has given fans a rare glimpse into his life at Real Madrid, his evolving friendship with Kylian Mbappé, and the lessons he’s learned since joining one of football’s greatest clubs.
The 20-year-old midfielder, often hailed as “the next big thing” in European football, opened up about his early struggles, his admiration for Mbappé, and the way Xabi Alonso’s arrival has transformed his game.
The Making of Real Madrid’s New Diamond
When Arda Güler first signed for Real Madrid, expectations were sky-high. Coming from Fenerbahçe, he carried the hopes of an entire nation on his young shoulders.
“When I joined Real Madrid, I knew I was entering the world’s biggest club,” Güler confessed. “But after my first training session, I realized I had the quality to belong here.”
According to Güler, Real Madrid’s scouting director Juni Calafat had been completely transparent about the challenges ahead.
“He told me the first year would be tough because I was coming from Turkey, a very different football culture,” Arda recalled. “He said they were preparing me for the future — for the time after legends like Luka Modrić and Toni Kroos. That honesty gave me confidence.”
Those words turned out to be prophetic. In less than two seasons, Güler has grown into one of the brightest young talents in Europe — a blend of finesse, vision, and tactical maturity rarely seen at his age.
A Connection Beyond Words: Güler and Mbappé’s Chemistry
One of the most fascinating parts of the interview came when Arda spoke about his on-field understanding with Kylian Mbappé, Real Madrid’s newest superstar signing.
“Kylian’s abilities and mine complement each other,” Güler said with a smile. “We understand each other perfectly. Sometimes, before a game, we talk about small details — what we’ll try, what spaces to exploit. But there are nights when words aren’t needed. One look is enough.”
Their partnership has quickly become one of the most talked-about dynamics in world football. Spanish media have already dubbed them “the new Ronaldo-Özil duo” — a comparison that Güler accepts with humility.
“I like the comparison between ‘Cristiano Ronaldo–Mesut Özil’ and ‘Kylian Mbappé–Arda Güler,’” he admitted. “They achieved great things, but real success always comes from the team, not just two players.”
How Xabi Alonso Changed Everything
Another key revelation from the interview was Güler’s admiration for his coach Xabi Alonso, who took charge of Real Madrid earlier this season.
The young midfielder credits Alonso’s tactical insight and leadership for his recent evolution.
“Xabi has given me freedom,” Güler explained. “He trusts my creativity, but he also challenges me to think like a leader. He wants me to take responsibility, to orchestrate attacks and control tempo. That has changed my entire mindset.”
Spanish outlets like Marca and AS have echoed these sentiments, describing Güler as “a genius who makes forwards shine with his passes.” Alonso himself has reportedly praised the Turkish star’s ability to “see the game two seconds earlier than anyone else.”
From Istanbul to Madrid: A Journey of Faith and Fire
For Arda, the journey from Altındağ, Ankara to Santiago Bernabéu has been anything but easy. Injuries, pressure, and adaptation challenges tested his patience. Yet, his calm demeanor and laser focus have turned each obstacle into motivation.
“I’ve had tough moments — injuries, new environments, expectations,” he admitted. “But every challenge reminded me why I play this game: for joy, for passion, and for my country.”
He also expressed deep gratitude for the support of his Turkish fans, who continue to follow every step of his career with pride.
“Every message from home gives me strength. I carry that love with me on the pitch,” he said.
The Next Chapter: What’s Ahead for Güler and Real Madrid
As Real Madrid prepares for their upcoming La Liga clash against Getafe, anticipation is high. Fans are eager to see more of the magical chemistry between Güler and Mbappé, which has already produced several dazzling moments this season.
Spanish media reports suggest that Xabi Alonso plans to build more attacking patterns around the duo. The coach reportedly told his staff:
“They’re not just teammates — they’re two minds thinking in sync.”
If the trend continues, the football world may soon witness the birth of a new golden partnership — one that could define a generation.
The Bigger Picture: Beyond the Headlines
Arda Güler’s story isn’t just about fame or talent. It’s about perseverance, adaptability, and self-belief. He represents the new wave of Turkish footballers who are not afraid to dream on the grandest stage.
As he put it simply in his interview:
“I came here not to follow others’ footsteps, but to leave my own.”
With his humility, intelligence, and raw skill, Arda Güler is proving that greatness is not about age — it’s about attitude. And at Real Madrid, he’s showing the world that he belongs.
