Arda Güler: What Carlo Ancelotti truly criticises about the 19-year-old player

For several matches now, Arda Güler has not played a single minute. As frustration and confusion grow over Carlo Ancelotti’s decisions, a clarification has emerged. The reason why the 19-year-old is no longer playing has been revealed.

Currently, he is making headlines, but not for his performances on the pitch. Considered one of the most promising young talents in La Liga since his arrival at Real Madrid, Arda Güler has yet to take the necessary step to become a key player in the squad. In the first half of the season, the 19-year-old attacking midfielder played frequently due to injuries to Brahim Díaz and Rodrygo Goes. Just when it seemed like he had earned a place in Carlo Ancelotti’s plans, things took an unexpected turn at the start of 2025. Over Real Madrid’s last five matches, the Turkish player has not featured at all.

The reasons behind Güler’s decline

Arda Güler: What Carlo Ancelotti truly criticises about the 19-year-old player

Last week, several Turkish football analysts expressed their frustration, urging their compatriot to leave Real Madrid at the end of the season to secure more playing time. Despite the growing debate, Carlo Ancelotti once again left the youngster on the bench during Real Madrid’s 2-0 win over Girona on Sunday in La Liga’s 25th round. Following the match, many have turned their attention to Güler’s situation, as he appears to be fading into the background.

When asked about the former Fenerbahçe player in a press conference, Ancelotti largely dodged the question, simply stating that Güler was “ready to play.” While Madrid fans wait to see if Arda Güler will feature against Real Sociedad in the Copa del Rey semi-final on Wednesday, Spanish outlet Relevo has made an intriguing revelation. According to the source, Real Madrid’s coaching staff was unimpressed with Güler’s last performance, which came against Leganés in the Copa del Rey quarter-finals—a match in which both teams were battling for a place in the semi-finals.

Arda Guler is a prime example of why you should never pick money over passion in football pic.twitter.com/wsJ0RWshTC

— Pain.𝕏 (@GBarca_) February 23, 2025

According to reports, this match is the key reason for Güler’s absence. Despite his undeniable attacking talent, Arda Güler has significant defensive weaknesses. His performance against Leganés failed to convince the Real Madrid coaching staff, leading to his current situation at this stage of the season. The reality is that the standards at Real Madrid’s first team are extremely high. At 19, Arda still has a lot to prove to satisfy the Madrid coach, who is not particularly known for his trust in young players.

What lies ahead for the young midfielder?

Arda Güler: What Carlo Ancelotti truly criticises about the 19-year-old player

Now that the reason behind Arda Güler’s struggles is clear, it is evident that he will need patience and hard work. With the season entering a crucial phase with high-stakes matches, it is unlikely that Carlo Ancelotti will alter his plans for the Turkish midfielder. However, if Güler continues to work on his positioning and defensive contributions, he could earn some playing time in matches where Madrid has already secured victory.

In the worst-case scenario, Güler might need to consider a departure in the coming months to get more minutes on the pitch. Similar to Nico Paz, who had to leave Real Madrid for Como in Serie A to gain playing time, Arda Güler may also need a temporary exit from the club. If he chooses to stay, he will have to remain patient and fight for his place—just like Brahim Díaz, who has proven himself by contributing both offensively and defensively whenever he plays.