Arda Guler has revealed why he took the opportunity to score Real Madrid’s second goal in their 4-1 Champions League victory over RB Leipzig, joking that Kylian Mbappe would find the net again anyway.
The Turkish midfielder was among Real Madrid’s standout contributors on matchday three and praised his team’s performance both in possession and without the ball.
With the European fixture behind them, Guler also made clear that Real Madrid are already focused on the challenge of facing Barcelona in El Clasico.
Guler praises Real Madrid’s performance against Leipzig
Madrid’s victory provided another positive result in their Champions League campaign, with Guler pleased by the team’s work across both phases of the game.
Speaking to Real Madrid TV after the final whistle, the midfielder stressed that the performance was about more than the goals scored.
Arda Guler joked about Kylian Mbappe’s goal. (Photo by Diego Souto/Getty Images)
“We’re really pleased because I think we played brilliantly, both with and without the ball. I think we put in a great performance and we’re very happy,” he began.
Guler also explained the expectations that come with representing the Spanish giants, insisting that winning must remain the standard regardless of the opponent or competition.
“This is what we have to do. We’re Real Madrid, and we have to win every match.”
Guler jokes about taking Mbappe’s goal
One of the lighter moments from Guler’s interview came when he discussed his goal against Leipzig.
The midfielder acknowledged that he had taken the opportunity away from Mbappe, but suggested there was little reason for concern given the French forward’s scoring ability.
Arda Guler was crucial for Real Madrid in the Leipzig win. (Photo by Diego Souto/Getty Images)
“I stole the goal from Mbappe, but that’s because I knew he’d score another one. So, no problem.”
The young Turk also pointed to the influence of playing at the Santiago Bernabeu, where the home crowd provides an additional motivation for the team.
“It’s a key factor because when we play at home, in front of our fans, we try to give it our all for them.”
Attention now turns to Sunday’s El Clasico, with Guler recognising the importance of the meeting and promising that Madrid will be ready to compete for the victory.
“It’s a big match, a top-class fixture, and we’ll give it our all to win. We’re ready,” he concluded.