Analysis: Why Real Madrid should look to make a Brahim Diaz-style deal for Arda Guler
Arda Guler has grabbed the headlines at Real Madrid in recent months, but not for the right reasons. He has struggled massively to make an impact since joining from Fenerbahce last summer, despite the fact that Carlo Ancelotti's side have overseen an injury crisis.
Guler's start at Los Blancos has been blighted by injuries. He was forced to undergo knee surgery in pre-season after a recurrence of a previous problem, before further problems meant he was not fit until the end of 2023. In total, he made just one principle, that being in the Copa del Rey against Arandina.
He was fully fit in 2024, but Ancelotti chose not to play. He has amassed 33 total minutes since that Copa match in January, and has publicly shown his frustration while on the bench during Real Madrid games.
Due to this situation, and the fact that Endrick Felipe (and probably Kylian Mbappe) will join in the summer, Real Madrid are looking to send Guler on loan for next season. Despite this, he wants to stay in the Spanish capital and fight for its place, which could stunt its further development.
If Guler leaves, he could follow in the footsteps of one of his current competitors, which is Brahim Diaz. According to TransfersAC Milan are willing to take the Turkish teenager on a temporary basis.
It would be wise for Guler to go out on loan, as if he stays, he hardly plays, if at all. It could also be a case of playing for Castilla, which would probably do little for his development. Milan would be an excellent destination, especially when you see how good Brahim has been since returning last summer.
Guler just has to start playing regularly if he wants to reach his maximum potential. He cannot afford another season like this where he is constantly without minutes, otherwise his career risks fizzling out, which would be a terrible shame. He just needs to go out on loan next season, and if he impresses enough, there is every chance he will return to Real Madrid and become an important player, in exactly the same way that Brahim has.
It remains to be seen how this situation plays out before the summer, but it would be smart to Real Madrid to win
