1st Leg Copa del Rey: Carlo Ancelotti’s Player Who Must Play at All Costs

Real Madrid are set to face Real Sociedad on Wednesday in the first leg of the Copa del Rey semi-finals. With this crucial fixture on the horizon, Carlo Ancelotti faces an important selection dilemma, and one decision stands out above all—Arda Güler must be given the opportunity to prove himself.

The calendar has been relentless for Real Madrid. Engaged in multiple competitions, Los Blancos have been playing matches every three days since the beginning of 2025. Following their 25th La Liga fixture against Girona on Sunday, they will make the trip to San Sebastián, where they will battle for a spot in the Copa del Rey final. On Monday, the squad was back at Valdebebas, fine-tuning their preparations for what promises to be a high-intensity match.

Ancelotti is expected to field a strong XI, but rotation is necessary given the physical demands on the squad. This presents the perfect opportunity for Arda Güler, a player whose recent lack of minutes has been a growing concern. The Turkish starlet has found himself sidelined, struggling for playing time since the return of Brahim Diaz and Rodrygo Goes. Despite his immense talent, Güler has become an afterthought in Madrid’s pecking order, featuring only in Copa del Rey matches in 2025.

His last appearance came in the quarter-finals against Leganés, where he failed to make a notable impact. Since then, he has not played a single minute. With the business end of the season approaching, the 19-year-old is at risk of losing rhythm, confidence, and momentum if he continues to be ignored. This is why the Copa del Rey semi-final is the perfect stage for his redemption.

Güler’s talent is unquestionable. He was once hailed as one of Europe’s brightest young prospects when Real Madrid secured his signing from Fenerbahçe. His technical ability, vision, and creativity remain exceptional, yet without opportunities, his growth is being stifled. He needs game time, and the Copa del Rey—a competition in which he has been utilized—is the logical platform for him to showcase his ability.

More importantly, the psychological impact of prolonged bench time cannot be ignored. Without regular minutes, Güler risks falling into a negative spiral, which could further diminish his confidence. Turkish media and fans have already begun expressing concerns over his lack of involvement, with some pundits urging him to leave Real Madrid in search of a club where he can play consistently. If Ancelotti fails to integrate him into the team soon, the young star’s frustration may reach a breaking point.

Ancelotti himself has always been known for his man-management skills, balancing the needs of his squad while keeping players motivated. However, Güler’s case is becoming an outlier. The teenager does not need to play merely for the sake of it; he needs to play because he has the ability to influence games, particularly against a tough opponent like Real Sociedad.

Additionally, resting key players such as Jude Bellingham, Vinicius Jr., or Federico Valverde could be beneficial in the long run. Madrid’s primary focus remains La Liga and the Champions League, but depth players must also be kept engaged. Güler’s presence would not only inject fresh energy into the squad but also provide an alternative creative outlet against a disciplined Sociedad side.

If Güler is left out again, it will only exacerbate the perception that his development is being mishandled. The Madrid press has already begun calling him “lost,” and if he remains unused in the semi-final, it could signal a deeper issue regarding his future at the club. The longer he stays on the bench, the greater the likelihood of an eventual departure, a scenario that would be disappointing for both the player and the club.

The Copa del Rey represents Real Madrid’s best opportunity to allow young and fringe players to contribute meaningfully. Ancelotti must recognize this and grant Güler a chance to make an impact. While winning remains the priority, ensuring squad harmony and player development is equally crucial.

For Güler, Wednesday’s semi-final could be a turning point. It is his opportunity to remind everyone of the talent that made him such a coveted signing. If given the chance, he has the ability to change the course of the game, proving that he deserves to be an integral part of Madrid’s plans moving forward.

All eyes will be on Ancelotti’s lineup announcement. Will Güler get the nod, or will he remain on the fringes? One thing is certain—this decision could have long-term implications for both the player and Real Madrid’s future squad management.