Real Madrid starlet could leave amid tenuous relationship with Ancelotti – report | OneFootball

Arda Guler is in his second season at Real Madrid but is yet to make an impact at the level expected.

The 20-year-old attacking midfielder has failed to convince manager Carlo Ancelotti resulting in reduced playing time.

Even when afforded a chance, the Turkish international has been unable to make the most of it due to the lack of rhythm and continuity.

Relationship between player and manager tense

Now, according to journalist Jorge C Picon (h/t RM4Arab), the relationship between Arda Guler and Carlo Ancelotti has never been particularly strong.

The Italian manager has always maintained a diplomatic approach with his players, keeping a professional distance and prioritising the team over individual talents.

This has not favoured Guler, who has struggled to win over his coach and is unhappy with his marginal role in the squad. The situation has now reached a point where it could explode in the summer.

Struggling to make an impact. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)

Ancelotti does not have a personal issue with the young midfielder, but he has noted certain shortcomings in recent months.

One of the main concerns is Guler’s level of commitment in training, which has failed to convince Real Madrid’s coaching staff.

The Turkish wonderkid’s technical quality and natural ability are not in question and he is regarded as a future star within the dressing room.

But his lack of defensive intensity during sessions at Valdebebas has been a recurring issue. This aspect is particularly important for Ancelotti, who highly values defensive contributions when assessing a player’s commitment.

Exit not ruled out

Another key reason behind Ancelotti’s doubts stems from Guler’s performance against Leganés in the Copa del Rey.

The post-match video analysis highlighted a series of poor decisions: he was tactically inconsistent, lost possession unnecessarily, pressed ineffectively, and failed to follow instructions.

This frustrated Ancelotti and his staff. Beyond simply making mistakes, they noticed a degree of passivity in his movements. The manager had previously had words with him over similar issues, and his performance vs Leganes only reinforced those concerns.

Guler is eager for his role to change and is open to leaving if it does not. However, he does not want to go out on loan. If he departs, it will be for a permanent move, cutting ties with Real Madrid.

The Merengues still firmly believe in his talent, and even Ancelotti acknowledges his potential, but they urge him to be patient.