Former Barcelona and Atletico Madrid star Arda Turan has backed Real Madrid wonderkid Arda Guler to surpass his legacy. Turan is widely regarded as one of the greatest Turkish players of all time while Guler is regarded as the future of the country's football.
Arda Turan hailed Guler as a special talent and claimed that he had what it took to become a superstar in the years to come. The former Barcelona and Atletico Madrid attacker backed the Real Madrid youngster to achieve a lot more success than he ever did. Turan said in an interview with AS, as quoted by Goal:
"Guler is a very special talent. He has unique qualities. I am sure he will surpass me. He has many years ahead of him. Once he combines his talent with the reality of the level at which he plays and completes his adaptation process, I believe he will achieve even greater success."
Arda Turan retired in 2022 following his illustrious career during which he played for the likes of Galatasaray, Atletico Madrid and Barcelona. He started his managerial career in 2023 with Eyupspor, who are fourth in the Süper Lig this season.
Guler, on the other hand, joined Real Madrid from Fenerbahce in 2023 but has not been able to command a regular spot under Carlo Ancelotti. He has so far made only 24 appearances for Los Blancos, with 16 of them coming from the bench.
Despite only playing 747 minutes of football in the Spanish capital-based club so far, Guler has already scored six goals. Capped 18 times for Turkey, he has three goals and three assists to his name.
Real Madrid are reportedly set to battle arch-rivals Barcelona for the signature of highly-rated Malaga winger Antonio Cordero. As reported by Spanish outlet Marca, the Spain under-19 international has attracted attention from the two biggest Spanish sides alongside several other major European clubs.
Cordero has been impressive for Malaga in the Spanish Segunda Division where he has caught the eye. It has been claimed that both Real Madrid and Barcelona wanted him last summer but Malaga did not entertain an offer.
However, with Cordero's deal expiring in June 2025, the 19-year-old continues to attract suitors. The youngster has reportedly made it clear that he won't sign a new deal, which means he would be available for nothing next summer.
A January move at a bargain fee could also be on the cards, which Malaga have no option but to accept. The winger, who can play on either flank, has made 33 senior appearances for Malaga till date, contributing with four goals and five assists.