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SportsArda Güler first World Cup participant back at Real Madrid preseason; Mourinho plans 4-2-3-1 role
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Arda Güler has joined Real Madrid's preseason training under new manager José Mourinho, becoming the first World Cup participant to return to Valdebebas. The Turkish midfielder is a player Mourinho has shown significant interest in, having previously tried to loan him at Fenerbahçe. Güler's strong connection with Kylian Mbappé last season (8 assists to the French striker) is noted as a key asset. However, competition for starting spots is intense: Bernardo Silva's arrival makes the attacking midfield position more expensive, and Güler may also compete with Federico Valverde for the right flank. The article describes this as a decisive year for Güler, with Mourinho planning to use him in a 4-2-3-1 formation alongside Aurélien Tchouaméni. Valverde and Antonio Rüdiger are expected to return later this week.
Source report
By Carlos Forjanes — Real Madrid section editor
The World Cup pieces are beginning to integrate into José Mourinho's machinery for Real Madrid's 2026-27 season. The first player to appear at Valdebebas was Arda Güler, who joined the squad this Monday morning and was immediately ready for action, participating directly in the team's ball exercises.
The talented Turkish midfielder opens the door to the staggered return of international players finishing their vacations. The next to arrive this same week will be Federico Valverde, followed by Antonio Rüdiger.
Güler is one of the players Mourinho has shown the most curiosity about. The Portuguese manager attempted to sign him on loan when he was at Fenerbahçe, and when the midfielder returned to Istanbul on a previous occasion, the two met and got to know each other. Now the situation is different: they will work together, and Mourinho has plans for Arda.
Bernardo Silva Looms
Mourinho has taken careful note of the connection established last season between Arda and Kylian Mbappé. Eight of the 14 assists provided by the Madrid No. 15 were received by the French top scorer. The chemistry is there, ready to be turned into nitroglycerin.
However, elite professional football demands immediate results. This is the most demanding Real Madrid squad in recent decades, and Güler now faces a signing that will make breaking into the starting lineup significantly more difficult. Within the 4-2-3-1 formation Mourinho typically proposes, alongside Aurélien Tchouaméni, a battle for position will emerge between Arda and Bernardo Silva. The alternative for the Turkish star is to move to the right flank — where Valverde will apparently also need to relocate.
A Decisive Year for Güler
The club recognizes that this is a decisive year for Güler, and the feeling is shared internally.
Tags: Real Madrid | Arda Güler
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Arda Güler Starts Preseason Training at Real Madrid Under Mourinho