Arda Güler debate at Real Madrid: 'In his absence...'

The set-pieces used by Real Madrid in the derby match have become a subject of new debate in Spain. Speaking on Cadena COPE's El Partidazo program, sports commentator Paco González criticized the fact that free kicks are left to Kylian Mbappé when Arda Güler is not in the game, and pointed out the team's lack of quality in crossing.

González argued that, apart from Arda Güler and Bernardo Silva, the number of players in the Real Madrid squad capable of delivering effective crosses is insufficient. According to the commentator, this is not just an in-game choice but points to a broader problem in terms of team planning.

Look at the quality of Real Madrid's squad. Your top scorer is the one taking free kicks when Güler isn't playing... Is there not a single player in the team who can deliver a good cross when Arda Güler is not there? The squad is the same as last season; you lack players with the technical skill to deliver crosses.

In assessments made in the Spanish press, special attention was drawn to Arda Güler's impact on set-pieces. A commentary in Defensa Central stated that the national footballer has turned into an important weapon for Real Madrid on set-pieces, but that the team loses this threat when he leaves the pitch.

In the derby, Real Madrid's goal that made it 2-1 also came from a header by Rüdiger following a cross from Bernardo Silva. This position made the debate over the team's set-piece and crossing quality more visible.

Mourinho's decision to substitute Arda Güler after Dean Huijsen received a red card was also a target of criticism. Spanish commentators expressed the view that this decision deprived Real Madrid of an important option in attack.

According to González, in a team like Real Madrid, it is not an acceptable situation for the responsibility of delivering effective crosses to depend almost entirely on Arda Güler. While the danger created by the Turkish footballer's left foot was highlighted, it was emphasized that the Madrid team needs to produce alternatives that can provide similar quality.

News Source: 12punto