Real Madrid: Arda Guler sparks controversy reminiscent of Vinícius incident! | OneFootball

Arda Güler at the center of controversy after his substitution yesterday against Benfica!

Arda Guler / @x.com/kingbeofguler

Cameras captured a controversial moment involving Turkish international Arda Guler during the clash between Real Madrid and Benfica, held as part of the 8th and final matchday of the UEFA Champions League group stage (2025-2026 season).

Arda Güler at the heart of controversy after being subbed off against Benfica

In the 79th minute, Madrid coach Álvaro Arbeloa decided to replace Arda Guler with young midfielder Jorge Cistero Sancho. The Turkish star struggled to accept the decision. Clearly frustrated, he left the pitch showing obvious signs of his anger.

Television footage showed Guler openly protesting the substitution, repeating: "Always me! Always me!"—a reaction that reflects his growing frustration over frequent substitutions since Arbeloa took charge at Real Madrid.

This incident reignited memories of a similar episode at the Madrid club, when Vinícius Junior voiced his discontent after being taken off during a Clasico against FC Barcelona, under Spanish coach Xabi Alonso.

The match ended in a 4-2 defeat for Real Madrid at Lisbon's Da Luz stadium (Estádio da Luz). The Spanish side closes the group stage in ninth place with 15 points.

Forced to go through the play-offs, Real Madrid will battle for a spot in the round of 16 against either Bodø/Glimt (Norway) or Benfica (Portugal).