Praise for Arda Güler from the Spanish press: 'He reminds us of Mesut Özil...'

As Real Madrid prepares to travel to face Espanyol on Saturday for the first match of the new La Liga season, Arda Güler's performance during the training camp has received extensive coverage in the Spanish sports press. In an assessment published in Marca by Sergio Rodríguez Castellanos, it was emphasized that the national footballer has been one of the most notable names of the pre-season period.

The report stated that a significant part of the game plan at Real Madrid under Jose Mourinho is being shaped around Arda Güler. It was noted that the national player has displayed a consistent performance throughout the summer, particularly exhibiting a profile that directs his teammates and seeks danger between the lines in the attacking midfield role.

CHANCES OF STARTING 11 HAVE STRENGTHENED

In Marca's analysis, it was commented that although Arda Güler has not previously played regularly in the "number 10" role at Real Madrid, he appears to be a natural playmaker in this position. While it was recalled that his pre-season began with a missed penalty in the friendly match against Alcorcon, it was noted that he has since strongly fulfilled the tasks assigned to him by Mourinho on the pitch.

According to the Spanish newspaper, Arda Güler turned the disappointment caused by Turkey's failure to pass the group stage in the World Cup into motivation at the Real Madrid camp. The article, which pointed out that competition in the midfield is high, stated that Jude Bellingham is one of the national footballer's direct rivals.

The report assessed that the probability of Arda Güler starting in the 11 against Espanyol is "quite high." Marca wrote that the young footballer's performance in the friendly matches gave a strong impression that he should be in the starting 11.

The comparison to Mesut Özil also stood out in the article regarding Arda Güler. It was stated that Real Madrid fans are reminded of Özil by the national player due to the same position and left-foot quality. It was commented that this similarity, rather than being a burden on Arda, increases the expectation that he could create a similar impact in Madrid.

Marca recalled that Arda Güler had a similar opportunity last season during the Xabi Alonso era and following Jude Bellingham's injury; however, he had to build the game from deeper positions at that time. It was assessed that this time, with Bernardo Silva taking on some responsibilities, a freer space has been opened up for Arda in the attacking line.