The summer of international soccer is about to conclude with the European Championship and the Copa America nearing their respective ends. However, for soccer fans, the action will continue as the planning for the 2024/25 club season gets underway. One of the most exciting and curious cases is regarding the Real Madrid squad, which has unquestionably managed to become the best in the world.
Last summer, Los Blancos captured the signing of a teenage sensation from Turkiye, Arda Guler. The player, though, suffered injury woes throughout the campaign and struggled to obtain a regular place in the starting eleven. This time around, Guler is coming off a strong run in Euro 2024 and is making a case to be a starter. With Kylian Mbappe and Vinicius Jr. guaranteed names in the lineup, Brazil’s Rodrygo might lose his place to the Turkish prodigy, and here is a look at why.
The absence of a left-footed player in Real Madrid’s front line
Amongst the many unparalleled qualities in Real Madrid’s attack, the lack of left-footed individuals does present itself as an issue for Carlo Ancelotti. Although Brahim Diaz will continue at the Santiago Bernabeu, the Moroccan has never established himself as the first choice in the eyes of the Italian coach. Having three players in the forward with all of them inclined towards their right foot might induce monotony, thus making it easier for the opposition defenses.
As witnessed in the UEFA Euro 2024 in Germany, Arda Guler’s left foot already stands with the best in the game. The 19-year-old’s dominance on the left will make him a suitable option to operate on the right wing, allowing Vini Jr. and Mbappe to rotate on the left flank seamlessly. Guler’s prowess from set-pieces also makes him a superior option above Rodrygo.
Rodrygo’s inconsistent displays as a starter
The quick and young dribbler from Brazil made a name for himself during his early years at Real Madrid as a devastating option from the bench. Some of his most iconic moments like the brace against Manchester City as a substitute in 2022 have come as a substitute. Unfortunately, as evident from the 2023/24 season, the 23-year-old has failed to replicate that impact when deployed in the starting line-up.
Rodrygo endured a two-month-long goal drought at the beginning of the season which was followed by another in the months succeeding the winter break. Arda Guler, on the other hand, earned a place in the latter stage of the campaign and extraordinarily found the back of the net six times from six shots on target. Rodrygo’s failures as a starter can not be ignored at a club like Madrid which might just swing the debate in favor of Guler.
Tactical flexibility for Carlo Ancelotti
Real Madrid’s coach, Carlo Ancelotti is well renowned for his ability to adapt and be flexible enough to adjust to the game situation. Mbappe, Vinicius, and Rodrygo broadly provide the same skillset with pace and trickery being their ultimate strengths. As for Guler, his profile presents a whole different picture with the Turk relying on close control and his vision more than anything.
Arda Guler is capable of playing out wide as well as a more unorthodox inverted winger. This scenario will also enable Jude Bellingham to play a bit further up the pitch which looks unlikely right now with the recent retirement of Toni Kroos. Carlo Ancelotti would love to include such unpredictability and variation in his line-up, allowing him to make alterations as he desires.