Mourinho predicts Arda Güler will evolve into midfield

Mourinho forecasted that Arda Güler will follow a trajectory similar to Modrić's, transitioning from attacking positions to defensive midfield as his career matures.

By El Medio Oriente
August 26, 2026
A man with white hair wearing a dark green and pink Real Madrid tracksuit stands on the sidelines at a stadium.
Mourinho observes the match from the technical area wearing Real Madrid coaching kit while analysing his players' performance during the game. (Mundo Deportivo)
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José Mourinho addressed the Negreira case, his historic failures in pursuit of the Champions League, and Real Madrid's new signings during an interview aired today on El Chiringuito. "When I was here, I already smelled something," the coach explained regarding the events investigated by UEFA.

Mourinho acknowledged his historic difficulties in the top competition. "I don't have much luck with the Champions League. I've lost three semifinals on penalties. I've lost another semifinal with a ball that didn't go in the net, with that Luis García goal. With Madrid I came close," he noted.

Regarding his market requirements, he explained that he arrived without making specific requests but with a clear analysis of what was needed. "I wanted a fast, aggressive winger, with one-on-one ability, who can play on both flanks," he said, clarifying that the analysis focuses on the player's profile rather than the financial figure.

He defended Bernardo Silva's arrival as a personal decision. "Bernardo is Pep Guardiola's player. He brings everything. He's a player that I have always loved. Him being here has nothing to do with Atlético or Barcelona wanting him," he expressed.

Regarding Arda Güler, Mourinho anticipated an evolution similar to Modrić's. "There's only one Luka, there's only one Kroos. I love Arda. He starts as a 10, being more attacking, and then you end up as an eight or a six. Arda will go in that direction with his evolution and his understanding of the game," he concluded.

Mourinho predicts Arda Güler's midfield evolution | El Medio Oriente