Pictures: Arda Guler’s physical transformation through ‘special program’ leaves fans in awe | OneFootball

The 2025/26 season could mark a major turning point in Arda Guler’s Real Madrid journey.

With Xabi Alonso now in charge and looking to reshape the squad, the Turkish starlet is set to play a far more prominent role, though not in the position fans may expect.

Instead of operating as a wide attacker, Guler is now being moulded into a central midfielder. This new role first appeared during the FIFA Club World Cup, where Alonso gave him a chance to showcase his abilities in a deeper position.

And while the youngster is still adapting to the physical demands of this new task, it is clear he understands what’s expected of him and is leaving nothing to chance.

A complete lifestyle shift

To handle the intensity of midfield battles, Guler has been focused on one key area – his body.

Reports suggest that the 20-year-old has already added around eight kilos of muscle, marking a significant shift from the slender player who arrived from Fenerbahçe in 2023.

This physical transformation has not come overnight. Guler has completely revamped his lifestyle.

He now lives with his own physiotherapist, personal fitness coach, and chef, all working in sync to help him meet the physical and nutritional requirements of top-level football.

Every meal is tailored. Every training session is focused. Every rest period is planned.

It is this level of commitment that is already showing results. While he still struggled a bit physically during the Club World Cup, there were clear signs of growth.

Alonso’s decision to test him in midfield may have been an experiment, but it is one that is beginning to pay off.

For Guler, the 2025/26 campaign could be more than just a breakout season. It might be the campaign he truly becomes a complete player for Real Madrid.