Real Madrid secured a valuable 1-0 victory over Getafe the day before yesterday, in a match where coach Carlo Ancelotti implemented a rotation policy, keeping an eye on the upcoming Copa del Rey final next Saturday.
Despite ongoing criticism of Ancelotti’s reluctance to give young players more opportunities, the Italian coach fielded a lineup that included promising talents Arda Güler and Endrick at the Coliseum. The move paid off, as the Turkish player scored the only goal of the match in a brilliant display, earning Real Madrid three crucial points that strengthen their challenge against Barcelona in the La Liga title race.
After the match, Ancelotti spoke candidly about Arda Güler’s performance and future during a press conference:
“He played as an inside midfielder and delivered an excellent performance with great quality and composure. It’s a position we haven’t used often. In a 4-4-2 formation, he can’t play in central midfield, only as a right winger. But in a 4-3-3, he thrives as an inside midfielder and shows great work rate.”
In the locker room, a friendly exchange took place between Ancelotti and Güler, with the coach telling the young star: “You were amazing against Getafe, but I’m sorry, you’ll be on the bench for the Clásico against Barcelona.” Güler accepted the comment with grace and appreciation, reflecting the strong relationship between the two. However, Ancelotti’s controversial decision to exclude him from the starting lineup was not warmly received by the Turkish player, who had hoped to earn a starting spot in the crucial match.