Carlo Ancelotti claimed Arda Guler has the “character” required to succeed at Real Madrid after the exciting youngster finally made his club debut on Saturday night.
Los Blancos eventually found the breakthrough in their Copa del Rey clash with minnows Arandina as they secured a 3-1 away victory thanks to goals from Joselu, Brahim Diaz and Rodrygo.
Turkey international Guler had appeared on the Madrid bench on a number of occasions previously without making his club bow but was lively during his hour-long appearance, striking the post from a free-kick while creating three chances for his teammates.
Ancelotti told reporters after the game: “He played for an hour at a good level. Obviously he is not at the physical level. He showed his quality. He showed it in the first half.
“I said we have to be patient with him. He has personality, he has character. That’s good. He stands out for the quality he has with his feet, but character is also important to do well at Real Madrid.”
Guler also attracted praise from goalscorer Joselu, who added: “Arda Guler is a diamond. He has a lot of quality.”
Madrid have been cautious with the 18-year-old since his transfer from Fenerbahce in the summer following a series of injury complaints, notably dealing with knee and muscle problems.
However, the teenager will be hopeful of being included in Madrid’s squad for the upcoming Supercopa de Espana, with their semi-final against Atletico Madrid scheduled for Wednesday night in Saudi Arabia.
Ancelotti is now without utility man Lucas Vazquez due to injury, with the experienced Spaniard joining key first-team stars Thibaut Courtois, Eder Militao and David Alaba on the sidelines. However, Eduardo Camavinga played for the first time since November in a big boost for the Italian manager.
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