Real Madrid playmaker impresses Mourinho’s staff in pre-season: ‘He’s flying’ | OneFootball

According to AS, it has taken just a couple of training sessions for Real Madrid midfielder Arda Guler to make a strong impression on José Mourinho and his coaching staff.

The Turkish midfielder has returned from his summer break in outstanding physical condition, immediately catching the eye at Valdebebas.

One member of the coaching staff summed up the early verdict with a simple remark: “Guler is flying!”

The 21-year-old has returned determined to build on the momentum he generated at the end of last season, arriving not only eager to impress but also in peak fitness.

His early return to training gives him an advantage over many of Madrid’s international players, and he is aiming to begin the new La Liga campaign as a starter.

Carrying over last season’s momentum

Following Turkey’s disappointing group-stage exit from the World Cup, Guler made it his priority to return to Madrid ready to continue the progress he made during the closing months of last season.

Despite Real Madrid falling short of silverware, he established himself as one of Alvaro Arbeloa’s most trusted players.

After starting in the Champions League knockout ties against Benfica and Manchester City, he produced one of the standout performances of his career in the second leg of the quarter-finals against Bayern Munich.

His season came to an unfortunate end shortly afterwards when he suffered an injury in training.

Overall, Guler finished the campaign with 51 appearances, six goals and 14 assists, including eight assists for Kylian Mbappe, with whom he developed an excellent understanding in attack.

More competition awaits

The challenge for Guler now is maintaining that role in an even stronger squad.

The arrivals of Bernardo Silva and the return of Endrick, who is also capable of playing on the right, have increased competition for attacking midfield and wide positions.

Making a positive impression. (Photo by Aitor Alcalde/Getty Images)

Franco Mastantuono could also compete for minutes if he remains at the club rather than leaving on loan.

Further competition comes from Brahim Diaz, who returns after contributing four assists at the World Cup, while Rodrygo continues his recovery from a cruciate ligament injury and is not expected back until late 2026 or early 2027.

Mourinho admires Guler

Despite the crowded competition, Guler begins with one significant advantage: Mourinho has admired him for years.

The Portuguese coach previously attempted to sign him on loan during his time at Fenerbahce, and the pair also met when the 21-year-old visited Istanbul during his early career.

Now, as Guler enters his fourth season at the club, Mourinho finally has the opportunity to work closely with a player he has long admired, and early signs suggest the partnership has begun exactly as both had hoped.