Jose Mourinho may have found the answer to Real Madrid’s midfield problems after Arda Guler delivered an outstanding performance in a deeper role.
The Portuguese manager started the Turkish international in defensive midfield against Sevilla, and Los Blancos produced their best performance of the season, securing a 4-1 victory.
According to Diario AS, Guler is now emerging as a genuine long-term option alongside Aurelien Tchouameni, with his influence in central midfield transforming Madrid’s attacking play.
Guler transforms Madrid’s midfield
Mourinho made several tactical adjustments against Sevilla, deploying Guler alongside Tchouameni, moving Federico Valverde to right-back and placing Yan Diomande on the left in Vinicius Junior’s absence.
However, Guler’s presence in midfield proved particularly influential.
Madrid enjoyed 65 percent possession and attempted 666 passes, both season-high figures, demonstrating an improvement in their ability to control matches.
Arda Guler impressed in a deeper role against Sevilla. (Photo by Florencia Tan Jun/Getty Images)
The first half was equally impressive, with Mourinho’s side registering 1.45 expected goals and five shots on target.
Guler also contributed directly to the scoreline, opening the scoring with a spectacular goal before receiving a standing ovation from the Bernabeu when substituted in the 77th minute.
The Turkey international completed 60 of his 64 passes, recording an impressive 94 percent accuracy, while also making five ball recoveries.
Mourinho had previously acknowledged Guler’s versatility and suggested that the youngster still had considerable room for development.
His decision to start the midfielder in a deeper position now appears to have paid off, providing a potential template for upcoming matches.
A partnership worth developing
Madrid’s midfield has struggled at times this season, particularly when Valverde and Tchouameni have been tasked with controlling possession together.
Both are excellent players, but neither naturally provides the creativity and passing rhythm that Guler brings.
The Turkish youngster offers something different: the ability to receive possession under pressure, link midfield with attack and dictate the tempo.
Does Mourinho see Guler as a long-term solution for his defensive midfield woes? (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)
Playing alongside Tchouameni also provides him with defensive protection, allowing him to focus on progressing the ball.
While one impressive performance does not guarantee a solution, it makes sense to deploy Guler in such a role going forward.
One important aspect the Turkish international must improve is his defensive awareness, which will be key to succeeding in a defensive midfield role.
It remains to be seen whether Mourinho is bold enough to play Guler in midfield against Barcelona next weekend.