Real Madrid midfielder Arda Guler shared a special moment with club legend Guti during the game against RB Leipzig.
The former Madrid star appeared as a commentator for DAZN. The Turkish youngster presented Guti with a personalised shirt.
The gesture highlighted the admiration between two Los Blancos players of different generations known for their creativity and technical ability.
Guti explains why he wanted Guler’s shirt
Speaking to DAZN, as quoted by AS, Guti revealed that he had been hoping to receive Guler’s jersey for some time and was delighted when the opportunity finally arrived.
“I had asked him for the jersey a long time ago. I took the opportunity today to get it from him,” Guti explained.
The former Madrid midfielder also revealed the message Guler had written on the shirt.
“He dedicated it to me. He wrote, ‘For the legend Guti.'”
Guti and Guler are quite similar as players. (Photo by Denis Doyle/Getty Images)
Guti admitted that his interest in the youngster goes beyond simply collecting shirts from current Real Madrid players.
“I like to have the jersey of any player who’s a bit like me. He’s similar to me,” he said.
He then explained the qualities that make Guler particularly appealing to him.
“He’s intelligent, combines well, has a great final pass, and scores goals.”
Guler responds to praise from a Madrid icon
Guler was equally appreciative when asked about the exchange.
“I’m very proud. He’s a legend. He’s a huge deal to me,” the youngster told DAZN.
The camaraderie between the two players was clear, with their admiration for each other’s qualities catching the eye.
Arda Guler will be key for Real Madrid against Barcelona. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)
Guti built his reputation around his vision, intelligent movement and ability to produce unexpected passes. Those are also qualities that make Guler an important player to watch.
Mourinho is constantly looking to reinvent the Turkey international’s position to make the best use of his abilities.
Guler’s ability to control the midfield and unlock defences with his passing could be incredibly important against Hansi Flick’s Barcelona.
It remains to be seen what position the youngster occupies against the Catalan giants and how he fares in the game.