Key Takeaways:
- Arda Guler has contributed three goals and 12 assists in 35 appearances this season, leading both Real Madrid and La Liga in assists
- Guler’s relationship with Kylian Mbappe ranks among the most productive attacking partnerships in Europe
- His former coach claimed last month that Guler is experiencing bullying from some Real Madrid teammates
Season Review: Guler’s Offensive Impact
Arda Guler, now in his third campaign at the Santiago Bernabeu, has demonstrated considerable talent, delivering standout creative performances for Real Madrid. With three goals and a league-leading 12 assists across 35 matches, Guler has been the highest provider for both the club and La Liga this term. His on-pitch partnership with Kylian Mbappe has also flourished, ranking as one of the continent’s most effective combinations in front of goal.
| Statistic | Total | Appearances |
|---|---|---|
| Goals | 3 | 35 |
| Assists | 12 | 35 |
🚨🚨 BREAKING: Reports in Spain claim Arda Güler has been facing difficulties at Real Madrid, with allegations of dressing room bullying and poor treatment from some teammates.
The situation is said to be causing concern around the young midfielder’s development and wellbeing at… pic.twitter.com/llRkBdgtk6
— MatchDay Central (@MatchDCentral) February 12, 2026
Concerns Raised Over Dressing Room Atmosphere
Despite his on-field contributions, Guler’s status as a regular starter remains uncertain. According to comments made by former youth coach and mentor Serhat Pekmezci, who spoke to Marca, all is not harmonious behind the scenes for the 20-year-old Turkey international. Pekmezci asserted that Guler is a victim of bullying within the Real Madrid squad, stating: “Even though Real Madrid is a megaclub, Arda Güler is suffering from mobbing (workplace harassment). It’s not that he complained to me, but he knew this would happen. I told him to be patient.” He further noted: “The bullying comes from the players. There’s a group there that hasn’t been able to accept Arda; unfortunately, they’re players with very big egos.”
Emotional Reaction in Benfica Substitution Incident
Guler’s frustrations came to the fore at the end of last month in a fixture against Benfica. After he was substituted in favour of Brahim Diaz for the closing 15 minutes, Guler was seen vocally questioning the decision from the bench by exclaiming in English, “why always me?”. Pekmezci provided perspective on the incident, remarking: “Arda is very patient and aware, but even he has begun to rebel, thinking, ‘Why always me?’”
Competition for Freedom on the Pitch
Guler’s challenge in securing a regular starting spot under coaches Alvaro Arbeloa, Xabi Alonso, and Carlo Ancelotti has been exacerbated by the enviable depth of flair players in the Real Madrid ranks. Although highly effective in advanced positions when given freedom to roam, the tactical demands and the presence of other players seeking similar roles have complicated his pathway. Pekmezci also referenced wider dressing room difficulties, suggesting that strong personalities in the squad contributed to Alonso’s departure, stating: “Klopp already said that some players need to leave so that he can arrive. That’s why Xabi Alonso left too.”
