Mesut Özil urges Real Madrid to do more to protect Arda Güler

Former Real Madrid star Mesut Özil has called on the club to do more to shield rising "Blancos" talent Arda Güler from criticism and external pressure.

Özil claims he sees certain similarities between himself and Güler, both in their playing styles and in the challenges they have faced in trying to make an impact in Madrid.

Quote. "I see a lot of myself in Arda Güler. We are similar. Real Madrid needs to do more to protect talents like him," Özil said in an interview with TRT Spor.

Güler has struggled with injuries during his first 18 months in Madrid, but he remains highly valued by Carlo Ancelotti. The club resisted the temptation to loan him out both in the summer and again in January, despite offers from Italy and his native Turkey.

Reminder. Earlier reports suggested that Real Madrid would sign a top forward if Vinícius Júnior were to leave the club.