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Neymar called Real Madrid’s Arda Güler the best midfielder in the world, sparking debate.
Neymar (Picture credit: AFP)
Neymar has never been shy with compliments — but this one stopped people in their tracks.
While visiting Santos’ training facilities, the Brazilian icon was asked about Turkey’s emerging stars by German-born Turkish footballer Aycan Yanaç of ALG Spor.
When Arda Güler was mentioned, Neymar didn’t pause.
“Arda Güler is an amazing player. He has quality,” Neymar said.
“I think he’s the best midfielder in the world.”
Note Jude Bellingham. Note Federico Valverde. Note Pedri. Arda Guler.
The quote instantly lit up social media, with fans torn between disbelief and delight. Coming from Brazil’s all-time top scorer, it wasn’t throwaway praise.
Now back at boyhood club Santos after spells at Barcelona, PSG and Al-Hilal, Neymar may be past his peak years, but his footballing authority remains unquestioned. He knows elite talent when he sees it.
Güler, still just 19, has steadily carved out his place at Real Madrid since arriving in 2023. He’s closing in on 100 appearances for Los Blancos and has already posted 15 goals and 19 assists, despite limited minutes early on. Under Xabi Alonso, his confidence and influence have visibly grown.
A 26-cap Turkey international, Güler has been trusted with regular minutes in the 2025/26 campaign, delivering nine goal contributions in 19 appearances across all competitions.
That rise hasn’t gone unnoticed. According to Spanish outlet E-NoticesArsenal are closely monitoring the situation, with Mikel Arteta reportedly keen on the young playmaker. The Gunners are said to be preparing a bid worth around €90 million ($105m).
Whether Real Madrid are willing to part with him remains the key question. Arsenal have been here before — capitalising on a similar situation with Martin Ødegaard, who arrived on loan before becoming club captain and one of the Premier League’s standout midfielders.
January 10, 2026, 5:46 PM IST
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