When a 20-year-old fan traveled all the way from London to Istanbul to witness one of the most passionate football matches in the world, he didn’t leave without making his presence known. Among a sea of banners and flags, his stood out the most inside the Sukru Saracoglu Stadium, as it read: 'Arda Güler: The Turkish Messi.'
Born in Ankara, in February 2005, Arda Güler started his football journey with local club Genclerbirligi. His natural talent and commitment to the sport were soon noticed by Fenerbahce, who signed him in 2021 on a two-and-a-half-year professional contract. Güler, in his first season with Fenerbahce, donned the number 10 shirt, a significant number for Fenerbahce fans due to its association with club legend Alex de Souza.
Despite being only 17, Güler is already making waves in Turkish football. In the 2022/23 season, he played 35 matches, scored six goals and provided seven assists. His average of 2.9 key passes per game was only surpassed by five other players in the Turkish top division. Not only that, but his dribbling skills also set him apart from his teammates, with only Emre Mor recording more successful dribbles per game.
This remarkable performance has led to Güler being dubbed as 'the Turkish Messi' and attracted attention from some of Europe's biggest clubs, including Arsenal, Liverpool, and Bayern Munich. They have been drawn to his finesse, technique, and mature possession control that seem far beyond his years.
Off the pitch, Güler is praised for his ability to stay grounded despite the growing hype around him. He knows when to switch off and relax, ensuring that his mental well-being is in check, a crucial aspect of his career that will undoubtedly aid his future growth in this high-pressure sport.
Arda Güler, a star player for Fenerbahçe and a rising sensation in Turkish football, has now set his sights on a new challenge. The talented midfielder has been making waves in the football world with his exceptional skills and consistent performance. Despite his young age, his maturity, technical ability, and football IQ have impressed fans and critics alike, drawing comparisons to some of the game's greatest players.
The latest news of Güler's transfer to Real Madrid has further solidified his status as a future football star. This big move is reportedly priced at a hefty 30 million Euros, with a 20 million Euro transfer fee and a 10 million Euro bonus, also giving Fenerbahçe a 20% share from his next sale. This transfer signifies not only a significant milestone in Güler's career but also highlights the shifting dynamics in football, where young talents are being recognized and scooped up by the world's most illustrious clubs.
The future looks bright for Arda Güler. His captivating performances have captured the hearts of football enthusiasts, and there's a sense of excitement about what the future holds for him. While it remains to be seen where his career will take him next, there's no doubt that this talented young player will continue to make waves in the football world. He is not just a rising star; he is a true football prodigy. As the banners read in the Sukru Saracoglu Stadium, 'Arda Güler: The Turkish Messi.' The world waits in anticipation to see what's next for this Turkish prodigy.