As the 2025-26 season reaches its climax, Arda Güler's rise at Real Madrid raises a bold question: has the prodigy already surpassed Jude Bellingham? A forensic stats breakdown.
By April 2026, Jude Bellingham has logged around 2,800 minutes across La Liga and the Champions League, contributing 14 goals and 6 assists — a respectable return, but down from his career-high 23 goals in 2023-24. Meanwhile, Arda Güler, now a fixture in Ancelotti’s starting XI, has amassed 8 goals and 9 assists in approximately 2,300 minutes. The Turkish sensation isn’t just promising; he’s delivering at the highest level.
More telling is the shift in roles. Bellingham, once the box-to-box dynamo, now operates more narrowly as a false nine or wide midfielder. Güler, in contrast, has evolved into Madrid’s chief playmaker, averaging 8.4 progressive passes per 90, compared to Bellingham’s 6.1. He’s not just creating chances — he’s dictating tempo, reminiscent of a young Modrić during Madrid’s golden era.
Analysts suggest Güler now holds greater influence over Madrid’s attacking rhythm than Bellingham, a seismic shift just 18 months after the Englishman’s arrival.
The advanced data paints a compelling picture. Güler’s combined xG+xA stands at 0.42 per 90, edging out Bellingham’s 0.39. More significantly, his shot-creating actions (SCA) average 4.1 per game, surpassing Bellingham’s 3.2. This isn’t noise — it’s evidence of sustained creative dominance.
Güler also leads in progressive carries (2.3 per 90) and pass completion in final third (88%), showcasing his ability to break lines under pressure. He thrives in tight spaces, combining quick one-touch play with sudden bursts into pockets. The last Madrid midfielder under 21 to post such numbers? A teenage Luka Modrić in 2008 — and we know how that story ended.
In high-stakes encounters, Güler has shone brightest. Against Manchester City in the Champions League quarter-final, he recorded a goal and two assists, becoming the youngest Madrid player aged 20 to achieve this feat in a knockout game since Raúl in 1998. Bellingham, tightly marked by Rodri, managed just 48% possession and one key pass.
In El Clásico, Güler dictated play with 91% pass accuracy and three successful dribbles, directly leading to Vinícius’s winner. Bellingham scored, yes — but Güler controlled. This contrast defines their current trajectories: one remains a threat, the other is becoming the architect.
Here it is: Arda Güler is now the more influential player at Real Madrid. Not in potential — in performance. Bellingham remains a clinical finisher and a fan favourite, but his impact is increasingly isolated to goalmouth moments. Güler, meanwhile, elevates the entire team’s play, orchestrating attacks with composure beyond his years.
This isn’t just a statistical edge — it’s a tactical evolution. Madrid are transitioning from Bellingham’s explosive energy to Güler’s intelligent control. The crown isn’t being contested; it’s being passed.
Q: Who has better stats, Bellingham or Arda Güler?
A: In the 2025-26 season, Arda Güler edges ahead in creativity, with 9 assists compared to Bellingham’s 6, and higher xG+xA per 90. He also leads in progressive carries and final-third involvement, making him Madrid’s primary playmaker.
Q: Is Arda Güler a future Ballon d'Or winner?
A: All signs point to yes. With his vision, technical mastery, and consistent high-level performances, Güler is widely regarded as a future favourite. If he maintains this trajectory, a first top-three finish could come as early as 2027.
Q: Who is the better player right now?
A: Based on 2025-26 performances, Arda Güler has surpassed Bellingham in overall influence. While Bellingham still scores crucial goals, Güler controls games, creates more chances, and excels in decisive moments — the hallmark of a true elite.
