Arda Guler Causes Internet Meltdown After Real Madrid Debut, Draws Comparison With Messi

• Arda Guler finally made his long-awaited debut for Real Madrid on Saturday, January 3
• The Turkish wonderkid gave a good account of himself against Arandina in the Copa del Rey
• Meanwhile, Los Blancos beat the lower-tier side 3-1 to reach the next stage of the competition

Arda Guler's dazzling performance on his competitive debut for Real Madrid on January 6 sent the internet into a frenzy.

The highly anticipated moment for the former Fenerbahce starlet came as he earned his starting spot in the Copa del Rey clash against Arandina, a fourth-division team, on Saturday, January 6.

Arda, 18, hadn't seen competitive action since his widely discussed transfer to the Spanish capital last summer, primarily due to persistent injuries.

Arda Guler's superlative performance on debut

However, his debut didn't disappoint. Given the nickname 'Turkish Messi' for his playing style reminiscent of Barcelona legend Lionel Messi, Arda displayed his skills on the field.

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Throughout the game, he showcased his flair, demonstrating adept touches and precise passing, and even came close to scoring with a free-kick that ricocheted off the post, denying him a storybook debut goal, per GOAL.

Despite being substituted after 59 minutes, Guler's impactful presence on the pitch left fans convinced of his promising potential, even though his appearance wasn't at full throttle, Fan Nation reports.

Fans drool over Arda Guler

An excited Real Madrid faithful, @MikaelMadridsta, made a brazen comparison between Arda Guler and Lionel Messi:

"Arda Guler is better than Messi."

Another user, @starboyorlando_, made similar comparisons, but this time included Cristiano Ronaldo:

"Arda Guler is a better free-kick taker than Messi and Ronaldo."

@YashRMFC, on the other hand, waxed lyrical about the ex-Fenerbahce star:

"Arda Guler is cooking so far, man, and remember, he hasn't played for 6 months. Built different man."

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An elated Madridista, @WolfRMFC, wrote:

"6 months without playing, and he was playing like he never missed a game. I AM SO EXCITED for the future of Arda Guler at Real Madrid."

@the_marcoli_boy added:

"Fantastic Debut by Arda Guler."

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Arda Guler no-show vs Mallorca explained

Earlier, Sports Brief reported that Carlo Ancelotti left football enthusiasts puzzled by his decision not to grant Arda Guler his anticipated debut during the match against Real Mallorca on Wednesday, January 3.

When asked about this choice, the Italian coach urged for patience and emphasised that Arda Guler holds a significant place in Madrid's current and future plans.