Real Madrid, the global powerhouse of football, finds itself engulfed in fresh controversy just as the Club World Cup looms. This time, the turmoil comes not from the pitch but from the voice of a club legend—Sergio Ramos. With just weeks remaining before Madrid’s participation in the prestigious tournament, Ramos reportedly delivered a scathing verdict on one of the club’s rising stars, Arda Güler. “He doesn’t deserve to be here,” Ramos is alleged to have said, igniting a media firestorm and opening a rift among fans and insiders alike.
Though Ramos has been away from Madrid since 2021 and currently plies his trade at Monterrey in Mexico, his voice still carries immense weight. With 671 appearances, 22 trophies, and countless iconic moments, including his unforgettable 93rd-minute header in the 2014 Champions League final, Ramos remains etched in the club’s mythology. It’s precisely because of his status that his comments about Güler have sent shockwaves through the Spanish capital. According to reports, Ramos privately expressed serious doubts about Güler’s readiness to wear the Real Madrid shirt. Sources close to the veteran defender say he believes the 20-year-old Turkish playmaker lacks the mental and physical preparation needed at a club where expectations never dip.
The timing of the comments—so close to the Club World Cup—has only amplified the controversy. Arda Güler arrived at Madrid in the summer of 2023 amidst much fanfare. Dubbed the “Turkish Messi,” the attacking midfielder was seen as a generational talent with dazzling footwork, vision, and creativity. But in the high-stakes ecosystem of Madrid, his playing time has been limited. Güler has played just over 1,000 minutes across 28 appearances this season, starting in only a handful of LaLiga fixtures .
Competition for attacking positions at Madrid has never been fiercer. With a front line consisting of Vinícius Júnior, Kylian Mbappé, Jude Bellingham, and Rodrygo, even a player of Güler’s potential has found minutes hard to come by. Former head coach Carlo Ancelotti once stated that the youngster needed time to adapt, but his departure and the arrival of Xabi Alonso as the new manager have only muddied the waters further. Güler’s frustration is reportedly growing. He considered a loan move during the winter window due to his limited role, but no move materialized. Ramos’ criticism has divided opinion sharply. Supporters of the Turkish star argue he is still adapting, while others believe Madrid is no place for growing pains.
Behind closed doors, some insiders hint that Ramos’ departure in 2021 helped reset the dressing room dynamic. Now, his re-emergence in public discourse feels like a reminder of the ruthless expectations that once defined Madrid’s locker room culture. With key players injured ahead of the Club World Cup, internal cohesion is more vital than ever. Xabi Alonso hasn’t helped clarify the situation. In his introductory press conference, he promised to craft a competitive team but notably didn’t mention Güler by name. Fans and pundits are now wondering: Is Güler part of Alonso’s plan or just a temporary accessory? As the tournament approaches, one thing is certain—Real Madrid is once again a cauldron of pressure, ambition, and expectation. Whether Güler survives this storm or gets swept away by it could define his entire career. But in Madrid, nothing is ever guaranteed. And sometimes, all it takes is one voice—from the past or the present—to shake everything.