Arda Güler gears up for Real Madrid season under Mourinho amid internal drama

Turkish midfielder Arda Güler, 21, has begun his fourth pre‑season with Real Madrid under new manager Jose Mourinho. Güler praised Mourinho as a legend, saying the coach and staff explain everything clearly and that working with him is a "great opportunity". He expressed a desire to win every trophy and to delight the club’s supporters.

Reports from Spanish media note that a member of Mourinho’s staff described Güler as “flying” in training. The player missed a penalty in the 1‑0 friendly win over AD Alcorcón but otherwise showed a high work rate. Last season he made 51 appearances for Madrid, scoring six goals and providing 14 assists, eight of which set up Kylian Mbappé.

French journalist Romain Molina claimed that former coach Xabi Alonso’s favouritism toward Güler upset several teammates – Federico Valverde, Jude Bellingham, Vinícius Júnior, Rodrygo and Endrick – alleging they wanted the Turkish midfielder sidelined. The claims have not been confirmed by the club. Güler, after Turkey’s early exit from the 2026 World Cup, said he is focused on physical preparation and learning Mourinho’s tactical demands.