Arda Güler Impresses José Mourinho After Real Madrid’s Comfortable Victory
Arda Güler’s creativity helped Real Madrid secure a 3-0 away win over Racing Santander, and José Mourinho was quick to underline the Turkish midfielder’s value to the side. After the match at El Sardinero, the Madrid manager described Güler as an important part of his tactical plans and praised the understanding he has developed with Jude Bellingham.
Güler began the game on the right flank, having recently recovered from a minor muscle strain. His influence was immediate: in the 22nd minute, he controlled the ball with a deft first touch and set up Bellingham, who finished to give Madrid the lead. Güler was substituted in the 67th minute, with Brahim Díaz coming on in his place.
Kylian Mbappé and Yan Diomande scored the other goals, completing a convincing result for the visitors. Güler’s assist also added to an increasingly productive campaign. Across 13 appearances in all competitions during the 2026-27 season, he has recorded three goals and six assists.
Mourinho addressed questions about why Güler had been deployed on the right rather than in a more central role. He argued that the decision reflects the player’s versatility, not a limitation on his influence. Güler, he said, understands what the team requires from him in that position and carries out his defensive responsibilities as well as contributing in attack.
The manager also highlighted Güler’s connection with Bellingham, pointing to the pass for the opening goal as an example of their complementary qualities. He praised the young midfielder’s awareness, distribution and ability to create chances, adding that Güler does not need to play every minute of every match for his importance to Madrid to be clear.
That point speaks to the role Güler can play even when his minutes are carefully managed. After returning from a muscle problem, a gradual reintegration can help a player regain match sharpness while reducing the risk of aggravating an injury. His substitution in the second half therefore need not diminish the significance of his contribution.
Starting on the right also gives Madrid another way to build attacks. From that position, Güler can move inside to find passing lanes, combine with teammates and deliver the ball into dangerous areas. His assist for Bellingham showed how a quick first touch can turn a crowded attacking situation into a clear opportunity.
The partnership between Güler and Bellingham offers Madrid a useful mix of creativity and forward movement. Güler can spot and execute the pass, while Bellingham’s runs give him a target in and around the box. When the timing between them is right, opponents have less time to reorganise their defence.
Güler’s return of three goals and six assists is another sign of his growing influence, although his contribution cannot be measured by numbers alone. His vision and willingness to attempt incisive passes can help Madrid change the rhythm of a match, particularly when opponents defend deep and space is limited.
Mourinho’s comments also reflect the value of tactical flexibility. A player who can operate in different positions gives the manager more options without requiring a change of personnel. For Güler, adapting to the right flank means balancing his natural creative instincts with the discipline needed to support the team’s shape.
Spanish media and former Real Madrid figures also praised Güler’s display. The response followed a performance in which he combined a decisive attacking moment with the work expected of him in his assigned role. Madrid left Santander with three goals, a clean sheet and another reminder of the young playmaker’s potential.