Arda Guler, the 19-year-old Turkish football prodigy, is reportedly contemplating leaving Real Madrid after facing challenges securing regular playtime this season.
Guler, who moved to Real Madrid in 2023 for $22 million, is growing increasingly frustrated with his limited role under coach Carlo Ancelotti. This situation has fueled speculation about his future, with Fenerbahce potentially offering him a route back to Türkiye.
Arda Guler’s Frustrations Over Lack of Playing Time at Real Madrid
Guler has struggled to gain consistent minutes on the pitch despite his immense potential. So far this season, he has featured in 10 matches, accumulating just 291 minutes of playtime.
With no goals or assists, Ancelotti has been cautious about giving Guler more opportunities. In a recent press conference, Ancelotti acknowledged Guler’s difficulty: “It’s not easy for Arda because there’s a lot of competition. He’s playing more than last year, but securing a starting spot is tough.”
Guler’s limited opportunities appear to have shaken his confidence in Ancelotti’s long-term plans for him. According to Marca, the young midfielder is now weighing his options, with a loan move emerging as a likely possibility. While Real Madrid remains keen on developing Guler, his dissatisfaction could push him to seek more playing time elsewhere.
Fenerbahce Eyes Guler’s Return to Türkiye
Fenerbahce, Guler’s former club, has shown interest in returning the young talent to Türkiye in the upcoming January transfer window. Fenerbahce’s sporting director, Mario Branco, has reportedly contacted Real Madrid to discuss a possible loan deal. Fenerbahce president Ali Koc may also play a role in encouraging Guler’s return to the Super Lig.
Earlier this season, Jose Mourinho, currently linked with Fenerbahce, also attempted to secure Guler on loan. However, Real Madrid rejected the approach, believing it was better for Guler to continue developing in Spain. Now, with Guler considering his future, Fenerbahce may have a stronger chance of reuniting with the young midfielder.
Arda Guler Tops List of Most Valuable Turkish Footballers
Despite his current struggles, Guler remains one of the most valuable footballers from Türkiye. The International Centre for Sports Studies (CIES) recently ranked him as the most valuable Turkish footballer, with an estimated market value of $80.5 million. He surpasses Juventus’ Kenan Yildiz, valued at $68.9 million, and Benfica’s Orkun Kokcu, at $47.5 million.
Top 10 Most Valuable Turkish Footballers:
- Arda Guler (Real Madrid) – $80.5 million
- Kenan Yildiz (Juventus) – $68.9 million
- Orkun Kokcu (Benfica) – $47.5 million
- Hakan Calhanoglu (Inter) – $44 million
- Kerem Akturkoglu (Benfica) – $39 million
- Ferdi Kadioglu (Brighton) – $34.3 million
- Semih Kilicsoy (Besiktas) – $30.4 million
- Baris Alper Yilmaz (Galatasaray) – $28.9 million
- Can Uzun (Frankfurt) – $22.1 million
- Ozan Kabak (Hoffenheim) – $16.6 million
As the January transfer window approaches, Guler’s next move remains uncertain. Whether he stays at Real Madrid to fight for his place or returns to Türkiye with Fenerbahce, fans and clubs will closely monitor his future.
