Real Madrid’s depth in midfield heading into the new season is staggering. Carlo Ancelotti is flooded with quality names all around him, and it can only be a good problem for him to have.
However, the availability of such diverse options to the coach turns on the heat for the players. After all, the competition could turn ruthless as the season progresses and it is inevitable that some will be benched.
Arda Guler is the latest entrant to Los Blancos’ midfield, arriving from Fenerbahce in a deal worth €20 million plus add-ons.
At just 18 years of age, he is seen as one to lead the team for the decades to come. Yet, the youngster is determined to waste no time in being incorporated into the starting lineup.
According to reports from Roberto Morales, Guler has informed Real Madrid that he will end his vacation early so as to join training sessions from day one. He is expected to link up with the team today and wants to win a spot under Ancelotti immediately.
He will thus join the nine first-team players slated to begin later in the day and will complete the full pre-season preparations under Carlo Ancelotti and Raul Gonzalez.
Real Madrid only play their first game of the preparatory phase in 14 days, and the rest of the squad is expected to join directly in the United States of America days before the clash against AC Milan. Thus, it is not surprising that Guler values a headstart to establish himself in his new environment.
The 18-year-old scored four goals and provided three assists for Fenerbahce in the Super Lig last season. Moreover, he averaged a stunning two key passes per game and created seven big chances.
With Carlo Ancelotti open to changing the team’s formation, it remains to be seen where he positions the Turkish star.