Arda Güler Benched for Portugal Clash: Is This a Sign of Things to Come?

Turkey’s rising star Arda Güler was surprisingly left on the bench for their Euro 2024 qualifier against Portugal. Despite his impressive form with Fenerbahçe, the 18-year-old attacking midfielder was not included in the starting lineup, sparking debate among fans and pundits alike.

Güler’s exclusion comes as a surprise considering his recent performances. The young talent has been instrumental in Fenerbahçe’s success, showcasing his exceptional dribbling skills, vision, and goal-scoring ability. His performances have drawn comparisons to Turkish legend Mesut Özil, and he has been widely tipped as a future star for the national team.

So why did head coach Stefan Kuntz opt to keep Güler on the bench? While the exact reasoning remains unclear, several factors could have influenced the decision.

Experience: The match against Portugal was a crucial fixture, and Kuntz may have prioritized experience over youth, opting for a more established midfield.
Tactical Considerations: Güler’s style of play might not have been ideal for the game’s tactical approach, with Kuntz preferring a more defensive setup against the Portuguese powerhouse.
Building for the Future: Kuntz could be strategically managing Güler’s workload, ensuring he remains fresh for upcoming matches and avoiding the risk of overexertion.

Regardless of the reason, Güler’s absence from the starting lineup has sparked controversy. Fans and pundits are divided on whether it was the right call, with many questioning the coach’s decision to leave such a promising young talent on the bench.

This decision raises further questions about Güler’s future with the national team. Will he be given more opportunities to showcase his talent in upcoming matches? Or will he continue to be a bench player for Turkey?

Only time will tell what the future holds for Arda Güler and his role in the Turkish national team. But one thing is certain: the young star’s talent cannot be ignored, and he will undoubtedly be a player to watch in the years to come.

Keywords: Arda Güler, Turkey, Euro 2024, Portugal, Stefan Kuntz, Fenerbahçe, bench, starting lineup, future, talent, young star, controversy, national team, Mesut Özil, tactical considerations, experience, building for the future.