Carlo Ancelotti Discusses Arda Guler Following Real Madrid’s Draw with Rayo Vallecano

• Real Madrid were held to a goalless draw at the Santiago Bernabeu Stadium by Rayo Vallecano
• Los Blancos' performance on the night generated significant criticism of coach Carlo Ancelotti
• The Italian manager has staunchly defended his choices and the performances of his players

The recent draw between Real Madrid and city rivals, Rayo Vallecano has ignited a significant difference of opinion among fans and stakeholders of the club.

While some believe it was Los Blancos' most impressive performance of the season, others were thoroughly unimpressed and didn't shy away from expressing their discontent, directing criticism towards coach Carlo Ancelotti.

In the aftermath of the game, the Italian manager has addressed the media, where he staunchly defended his team's performance and - notably - his decision not to field the talented Turkish star, Arda Guler.

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Carlo Ancelotti on Real Madrid’s performance

Speaking after Real Madrid drew against the Red Sashes, Ancelotti said, as quoted by Madrid Universal:

"We are disappointed by the result, but not by our performance. We believe we deserved to win. In other matches where we didn't perform as well, we emerged victorious.

"We find ourselves in a favourable position in the league and the Champions League. We have confidence that we will continue to perform at a high level, just as we did today."

Regarding the decision not to field Guler against Rayo Vallecano, the veteran manager commented:

"It wasn't the right time. In the final minutes, there was a lot of physicality and aerial battles, and it wasn't the suitable moment.

"With Arda, we need to proceed cautiously. He has recently begun training with the team and will soon be integrated into the lineup. For sure, Arda Güler will play soon."

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Although Ancelotti defended his team's performance and his decision, the statistics from the game suggest that having players with the skills of Guler and the attacking prowess of Brahim Diaz might have been the key to securing victory that evening.

Fans question Ancelotti over Guler and Diaz

Data from Opta revealed Real Madrid attempted 22 shots against Rayo Vallecano, one of the few instances where they attempted more shots without scoring since the game against Cádiz in December 2021, where they had 36 attempts.

Many fans believe the Spanish giants could have secured victory if they had opted for long-range shots, a tactic that has often proven successful when facing opponents with a deep defensive line. Given Guler's abilities, many were perplexed by Ancelotti's decision not to include him in the line-up.

As Real Madrid prepares to face Sporting Braga in the UEFA Champions League, supporters are hopeful the manager will provide the 'Turkish Lionel Messi' with the opportunity to showcase his remarkable talent in this crucial UCL match.

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Modric hails Real Madrid wonderkid

Earlier, Sports Brief reported on Real Madrid midfielder, Luka Modric showering praise on Guler, referring to the young talent as a 'once-in-a-generation' player.

Often compared to Messi due to his shared characteristics with the Argentine, the Turkish star completed a €20 million move from Fenerbahce in the summer.

Unfortunately, the 18-year-old has been unable to exhibit his skills at the Santiago Bernabeu Stadium due to a meniscus injury he sustained in the pre-season.