Why Real Madrid star Arda Güler might be the most promising talent to watch at the World Cup

As the countdown to the 2026 World Cup continues, one name is rapidly moving from "young talent" to must-watch star: Arda Güler.

The Real Madrid midfielder is no longer just a prospect with upside. Based on his recent performances at club and international level, he's entering the tournament as one of the most promising, and potentially impactful, young players in the field.

In Turkey, Güler is already a national icon. Head coach Vincenzo Montella has gone as far as comparing his popularity to that of Diego Maradona in Naples, a level of admiration that speaks to both his talent and his influence. And that reputation is now extending globally.

His performances have turned heads

Güler's transition to Real Madrid has been seamless, and his performances on Europe's biggest stages have turned heads. Over the past month alone, he's delivered highlight moments that few players can match. A goal from his own half at the Santiago Bernabéu, a key assist in a European semifinal, and a brace in Munich have elevated his profile heading into the World Cup.

Those performances have also changed how he's being evaluated. After watching Güler dominate against top competition, Thierry Henry made it clear that the label of "promising" might already be outdated. "He dictates the pace of the games," Henry said. "When a young player takes this step forward, we're no longer talking about potential - we're talking about reality."

Technically, he offers a rare combination of vision, creativity and finishing. Former Real Madrid figures like Xabi Alonso have compared him to a blend of Mesut Özil and Guti, pointing to his ability to influence the game with both passing and movement. Others, including Carlo Ancelotti, have emphasized how rare his skill set is for a midfielder.

His versatility adds another layer

Güler can operate in multiple attacking roles, whether closer to goal or deeper in the midfield. Teammates like Kylian Mbappé have highlighted his "magical touch," while coaches point to his intelligence and ability to read the game before receiving the ball.

That awareness is critical in a World Cup setting, where decision-making under pressure often defines success. Montella has emphasized Arda's willingness to work defensively and handle the physical demands of high-level competition. That complete profile positions him as a player capable of impacting matches in multiple ways.

Young stars often enter the World Cup with hype, but not all are ready to deliver on that stage. Güler's recent performances suggest he may be an exception. He's already producing at a high level against elite competition, and he's doing it with a level of confidence that stands out.