Ancelotti Apologizes to Güler for Final Decision: ‘Arda, It’s Difficult for Me
Italian coach Carlo Ancelotti didn’t hesitate to address a heartfelt apology directly to Arda Güler following a memorable final that secured another title for Real Madrid’s trophy cabinet at the Santiago Bernabéu.
The match against Barcelona unfolded nearly perfectly, aligning with the Italian manager’s strategic plan, as Real Madrid outplayed Xavi Hernández’s side, leaving a lasting impression.
However, Ancelotti couldn’t shake off a lingering regret, as the intensity of the final minutes increased, preventing him from achieving one of his objectives.
“I told him that the match was getting tense,” expressed the Real Madrid coach regarding his conversation with referee Juan Martínez Munuera.
Carlo Ancelotti had the intention of bringing Arda Güler into the game in the closing minutes of the Clásico but had a last-minute change of heart, deciding against it.
This decision left the young Turkish midfielder on the brink of experiencing his first official match against Barcelona on the field, a moment he was eagerly looking forward to. However, Ancelotti believed it was in Güler’s best interest not to expose him to the aggressive play of the heated Barcelona players, minimizing the risk of injury.
“It’s difficult for me, but I won’t bring you in,” the coach told Güler on the bench when he exhausted all substitutions. Güler understood Ancelotti’s decision, convinced that Carlo only wants the best for him.
