Real Madrid’s new duo compared to Cristiano Ronaldo and Mesut Ozil
Arda Guler has said he and Kylian Mbappe “understand each other well” as Real Madrid’s attacking duo continue to thrive under Xabi Alonso.
Guler and Mbappe have struck up an impressive partnership this season under the Spaniard, combining for five goals so far as Madrid won nine of their first 10 matches in all competitions.
“His qualities and mine are in harmony,” said Guler. “We understand each other well.
“The relationship is smooth. Sometimes we talk before the game and say, ‘Today, we have to do this or that.’ And sometimes, a glance is enough.”
The pair have been compared to legendary Madrid duo, Cristiano Ronaldo and Mesut Ozil, who combined for 38 goals in their three seasons together at the club. Incidentally, both Guler and Ozil are of Turkish descent, even if the latter became a German citizen.
Guler said: “I like the comparisons between Cristiano Ronaldo and Mesut Ozil and Kylian Mbappe and Arda Guler. They’ve achieved great things, but significant success is always achieved by a team, never just two players.”
Guler has been one of the biggest beneficiaries of Alonso’s arrival at the club. He has started nine out of Madrid’s 10 games in all competitions so far, which is already half of what he managed last season under Carlo Ancelotti.
Mbappe has also started on even hotter form than last season, finding the net 14 times in Madrid’s 10 games played. If he were to continue scoring at the current rate, he would surpass the 44 that secured him the Pichichi Trophy and the European golden boot last term.
“Some say he drops back too much into midfield, but I think we should let him play wherever he wants,” Guler said.
“His talent should be given free rein. If he moves into midfield and drops back a little, it’s not for nothing. He has the knowledge to do that. He understands the demands of the game.”
