Who is Arda Guler? The Turkish wonderkid Real Madrid have signed

James Shearman

• Updated: 6 Jul 2023 17:41 BST
• 3 min read

Arda Guler has chosen to join Real Madrid this summer despite being heavily courted by their El Clasico rivals Barcelona.

Guler, 18, has been dubbed the ‘next Mesut Ozil’ after his emergence onto the senior stage with Fenerbahce and has rejected a potential transfer to Camp Nou in favour of joining Carlo Ancelotti’s side.

He has signed for €17.5 million, on a long-term contract running until 2029.

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What position does Arda Guler play?

Guler plays as an attacking midfielder. He has an eye for a goal, but more often looks for a pass in an advanced playmaker role.

How good is Arda Guler?

As mentioned, Guler has been likened to former Fenerbahce teammate and ex-Arsenal player Ozil.

The wonderkid has a cultured left foot, much like Ozil, and has exceptional vision and passing ability for a player at his age.

Guler has impressive dribbling ability and can also finish chances, too, becoming the youngest goalscorer in Fenerbahce's club history with a volleyed effort in March of 2022.

In the 2021-22 Turkish Super Lig season, his debut one for the senior team, he registered three goals and three assists in 12 appearances - 10 of which were as a substitute.

Though he looks an exciting prospect, he wasn't quite able to really kick on from his first campaign last term. Again, he featured mostly of the bench, chipping in with four goals and four assists in 20 games. Thankfully, at his age, time is still very much on his side.

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What clubs are interested in Arda Guler?

Arda Guler was subject to interest from a host of elite European clubs, most notably Barcelona and Real Madrid.

When does Arda Guler’s contract expire?

Guler's contract with Real Madrid is set to expire in June 2029.

How old is Arda Guler?

Arda Guler was born on 25 February, 2005. He is 18 years old.

What is Arda Guler's Instagram?

Arda Guler's Instagram account has over two million followers as of June 2023.