Arda Guler starts for Real Madrid vs Real Betis in La Liga
In brief
- Arda Guler starts for Madrid against Betis with Bellingham and Valverde in midfield
- The 21-year-old Turkish midfielder has 74 La Liga appearances and 14 goals
- Real Madrid level on points with Barcelona after three matches this season
- Guler scored a memorable 68-meter goal against Elche in the 2025-26 season
A Rising Star at the Bernabéu
Guler arrived at Real Madrid from Fenerbahce in 2023 for a fee estimated between €20 million and €26 million. Since joining, he's become a fixture in Madrid's midfield rotation. The midfielder now has 74 La Liga appearances for Madrid to his name, with 14 goals across that stretch.
Last season proved pivotal for Guler's development. He earned consistent starts and recorded a memorable 68-meter goal against Elche during the 2025-26 campaign. That performance helped secure individual recognition—Guler was named the La Liga U23 Player of the Month for September 2025.
Momentum into the New Season
This season, Guler's trajectory continues upward. In the current 2026-27 season, he's contributed one goal and one assist across his first three La Liga appearances. His previous meeting with Betis also hinted at his potential impact—back in January 2026, Guler came off the bench against Betis and assisted a goal shortly after entering the pitch.
Real Madrid head into the Betis game level on points with FC Barcelona after three matches. Starting Guler reflects Mourinho's strategy to inject creativity and pace into Madrid's midfield as the season gains intensity. The midfielder's technical precision and ability to operate between the lines make him a key asset in breaking down compact defenses—exactly what Madrid will need if Barcelona continues to press hard for the title.
