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Real Madrid's Turkish international Arda Guler continues to generate discussion in Spain, largely because of his limited role in the squad since joining the club.
Despite his lack of playing time, the 20-year-old remains one of the most supported players among fans.
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Spanish newspaper AS organized a large fan poll following Real Madrid's Champions League exit at the hands of Arsenal. Out of more than 62,000 votes, 58% of fans blamed the club's sporting management for the failure.
The players received 24 % of the blame, while the coaching staff was seen as responsible by 18% of voters.
Another section of the survey asked fans which players should be sold ahead of next season.
Among the top 10 from the 23-man squad, Jesus Vallejo received the most votes with 15% (40,084). Lucas Vazquez and David Alaba followed closely, each with 14 percent support for their departure.
Player
Votes
Percentage
Jesus Vallejo
40,084
15%
Lucas Vazquez
37,305
14%
David Alaba
36,973
14%
Ferland Mendy
28,504
10%
Vinicius Junior
23,337
9%
Luka Modric
19,385
7%
Aurelien Tchouameni
14,790
5%
Fran Garcia
13,567
5%
Rodrygo
9,820
4%
Arda Guler
8,296
3%
Total Votes
54,853
Players most voted to leave - Top 10 players from the 23-man squad (Source: AS)
Ferland Mendy received 10%, while Vinicius Junior—a key figure in the club's recent Champions League titles—was named by 9% of voters. Luka Modric came in with 7%.
Tchouameni (5%), Fran Garcia (5%), and Rodrygo (4%) were also on the list. At the bottom was Arda Guler, with just 3% (8,296 votes), suggesting strong backing from fans who still see him as part of the club’s future.
The survey also highlighted areas where supporters believe the team must improve. Defensive midfield was considered the biggest concern, with 25% identifying it as the weakest link.
Right back (24%) and left back (21%) followed, reflecting a broader frustration with Madrid’s defensive stability.
Central defense and striker were lower priorities, with 14% and 9%, respectively. Other roles, such as winger, attacking midfield, and goalkeeper, received marginal attention.
In response to these concerns, reports in Spain suggest that Madrid has reached a verbal agreement with Liverpool’s Trent Alexander-Arnold, whose contract expires this summer. The move is seen as a direct response to the issues raised by fans in the poll.
On the left side, despite Ferland Mendy recently signing a new deal, there remain questions over his role in the squad.
Head coach Carlo Ancelotti opted to play David Alaba at left back in both legs against Arsenal, further fueling speculation about the position moving forward.
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