Real Madrid's rising star Arda Guler faces uphill battle against injuries

Rob Fleming
23 November 2023

In the intricate tapestry of Real Madrid's season, spanning over 100 days, Carlo Ancelotti is meticulously unravelling the threads of his squad's potential.

While many players have had their moment in the spotlight, one promising talent, Arda Guler, finds himself on the sidelines battling relentless injuries.

Hailed as one of the world's fastest-rising attacking prospects, Guler's journey at Real Madrid has been far from smooth. The struggle to secure his signature was intense, with a fierce tug-of-war between Real Madrid and arch-rivals Barcelona. However, as reported by Joaquin Maroto, the competition wasn't limited to Spanish adversaries; Bayer Leverkusen also sought to enlist him for their project under coach Xabi Alonso.

Ultimately, Real Madrid emerged victorious, securing Guler's talents in a noteworthy €30 million deal, inclusive of add-ons. This investment, however, has yet to yield returns on the pitch, primarily due to Guler's persistent battle with injuries.

Guler's woes began with a meniscal tear during preseason, leading to a surgical intervention. Unfortunately, setbacks continued as a relapse occurred, prolonging his recovery. Just as anticipation built for his debut, a new obstacle arose – a quadriceps injury side-lining him for at least a month.

Real Madrid, responding to the recurring setbacks, have taken decisive action within their medical team. The club are keen on preserving Guler's mental resilience amidst the physical challenges he faces. The focus now shifts to a cautious and gradual reintroduction of Guler into the team dynamics, prioritizing his well-being over immediate on-field contributions.

Carlo Ancelotti, in evaluating the situation, emphasized the importance of a patient approach. "Arda Guler is a phenomenal talent, and we're committed to nurturing him back to full fitness. The key is to ensure he returns stronger both physically and mentally," Ancelotti stated.

With the La Liga season unfolding, Real Madrid await Guler's emergence as a key contributor. The journey, marred by adversity, reflects the unpredictable nature of a footballer's fate. As Guler battles his way back to the pitch, the hopes of Madridistas ride on the young Turkish star's resilience and the expertise of the medical team guiding him through this challenging phase.