'Turkish Messi': When Ozil Asked God to Protect Arda Guler From 'Evil Eyes'

• Mesut Ozil's old comments about Fenerbahce rising star Arda Guler have resurfaced
• The 18-year-old is dubbed the 'Turkish Messi' and has reportedly joined Real Madrid
• He made 35 appearances for the Turkish club and scored six goals in all competitions

Fenerbahce's promising talent, Arda Guler, has made the decision to join Real Madrid over FC Barcelona, despite the latter's strong interest in him.

Guler, widely regarded as one of the most talented young players in European football, has earned high praise with some likening him to the renowned Argentine superstar, Lionel Messi.

Multiple sources, including MARCA, confirmed Barcelona's significant pursuit of Guler, but he ultimately chose to align himself with their El Clasico rivals, Real Madrid.

What Ozil said about Guler

Following Guler's imminent transfer to the Spanish capital, an old interview has resurfaced of Mesut Ozil praising the skills of the 18-year-old.

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Ozil, a former Real Madrid star himself, expressed his thoughts on the 'Turkish Messi's' potential, stating the young prodigy is destined for greatness.

“Is there a number 10 better than me? I can think of a name, I have a brother that I believe in, may God protect him from the evil eye, his name is Arda Güler,” the 2014 World Cup winner said, as quoted by MadridXtra.

Ozil's relationship with Arda Guler

During his tenure at Fenerbahce from January 2021 to July 2022, Ozil had the opportunity to play alongside Guler, whom he believes could become a world-beater in the coming years.

However, he believed the young talent should have continued his development in the Turkish Super Lig for another season, despite his impending move to Real Madrid, per Football Transfers.

Guler makes difficult transfer decision

In a related publication, Sports Brief reported that Fenerbahce's young star, Guler reportedly snubbed Barcelona to join their bitter club rivals, Real Madrid, instead.

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The 18-year-old, who has emerged as one of the most promising prospects in European football in the vein of Lionel Messi, is reportedly set to sign with Los Blancos.

Ozil names dream team

Earlier, Sports Brief reported on former Arsenal and Real Madrid playmaker, Ozil naming his football 'dream team', which surprisingly excluded Messi.

Following his decision to retire, the 34-year-old revealed his best XI on social media, which comprised some of the sport's crème de la crème players.