Real Madrid News
Real Madrid midfield prodigy determined to win over Jose Mourinho
There are a number of players in the Real Madrid squad for whom the next few weeks of pre-season could be make or break under Jose Mourinho.
When a squad is as loaded with stars as Los Blancos, it might be difficult for some of the talented younger players to earn important roles in the project.
Now, according to MARCA, Arda Guler has returned to Real Madrid in outstanding physical condition, determined to make himself a central figure in Jose’s new project.
The Turkish midfielder has made an excellent early impression on Mourinho, who has been pleased not only with his technical quality but also with the attitude and intensity he has shown since pre-season began.
Guler returns ready to compete
Guler was the first of Madrid’s World Cup players to rejoin the squad after Turkey were eliminated in the group stage. Although his tournament ended earlier than expected, he used the break wisely.
The 21-year-old rested while continuing a specific physical programme, allowing him to return looking sharp and fully prepared for the demands of pre-season.
That professionalism has been clear from the opening sessions. Guler appears determined to show Mourinho that he is ready for greater responsibility.
Steady progress at the Bernabeu
The midfielder is now beginning his fourth season as a Real Madrid player after improving his involvement year by year.
He played 12 matches during his debut campaign, followed by 49 in his second season and 51 last term.
His most recent campaign saw him contribute six goals and 14 assists, numbers that underline the progress he has made as a creator.
Mourinho is said to value Guler’s ability to receive between the lines, spot passes in crowded areas and influence matches close to the opposition penalty area.
More importantly, he has been impressed by the 21-year-old’s constant desire to keep improving.
Midfield is stacked
The arrival of Bernardo Silva means Guler will face major competition for minutes, but that does not appear to have changed his plans.
Mourinho will have to select between players like Federico Valverde, Silva, Jude Bellingham, Aurelien Tchouameni, Eduardo Camavinga and Guler for the midfield slots.
The Turkish midfield prodigy wants to succeed at Real Madrid and is prepared to fight for a place rather than look for an easier route elsewhere.
That mentality should appeal to Mourinho, a coach who places enormous value on discipline, sacrifice and competitive character.
This could be the season in which the 21-year-old steps up from being a promising starlet into a key player for Real Madrid.
The next few weeks in pre-season should give an idea of Mourinho’s plans for Guler, and it remains to be seen whether the Turk can grab the opportunity with both hands.
One of the main objectives for Real Madrid this summer was to bring in a new central midfielder capable of controlling the tempo and dictating the play from the middle.
A move for Rodri was in the works before the Spain captain decided to sign for FC Barcelona. The Merengues assessed several other options, but ended up not signing any player, with Jose Mourinho deciding to use Bernardo Silva in the double pivot.
One of the midfielders that Real Madrid were looking at as an option was Adam Wharton of Crystal Palace.
The England international has been on the club’s radar for a while now, but the Premier League club never opened the door for a summer departure.
Wharton could be on the market in 2027
However, now, according to The Guardian (h/t Bernabeu Digital), That stance could change next year, as that Palace would be prepared to consider selling Wharton during the next summer transfer window.
As mentioned already, Real Madrid have closely followed Wharton’s situation throughout the summer, although the club ultimately decided against making any further additions to their midfield.
Manchester City and Chelsea also showed serious interest in signing the England international during the summer. However, Crystal Palace were unwilling to sell, effectively ruling out a move for the midfielder.
But it appears that they could open the doors for Wharton to leave in the summer of 2027, potentially paving the way for Real Madrid to make a move.
Real Madrid continue to monitor Wharton
Real Madrid are expected to keep a close eye on Wharton’s progress ahead of the 2027 market. Should they decide they need another high-quality midfielder, the 22-year-old could once again emerge as a candidate.
Manchester City may be less likely to return for Wharton after strengthening their midfield significantly this summer.
Chelsea, however, could remain a potential competitor after failing to add a player in the position during the latest window.
For now, Wharton will remain at Crystal Palace, but the club’s willingness to consider a sale next summer means the midfielder could become a realistic option for Real Madrid in 2027.
