Real Madrid secured three crucial points at Anoeta, but the match left a mixed reading for its two young talents: Endrick and Arda Güler. While the Brazilian excelled with a goal and showed glimpses of his quality, the Turk had a discreet match, far from his best version. After the match, Ancelotti avoided criticizing him and only highlighted his defensive effort, suggesting he wasn't up to the expected level.
Endrick Takes the Spotlight
The Brazilian forward once again demonstrated why Madrid bet on him. With little, he did a lot.
His goal was a display of his instinct and talent: an outside-foot control and precise finish. Then, he almost scored a second with a shot that hit the crossbar.
Endrick doesn't need much to make a difference. His speed, power, and ability to find space make him a constant threat. Ancelotti praised him after the match:
"He has a lot of accuracy, he's fast and powerful. He still needs to handle the ball better, but his movement and shot... He's a spectacular player who learns very quickly."
A clear message. Endrick is growing and leaving his mark every chance he gets.
Güler, a Gray Match
In Arda Güler's case, the story was different. He started with enthusiasm, trying a long-range shot, but gradually faded. His offensive contribution was minimal: only one shot (off target), one chance created, and no successful dribbles.
Instead of shining, he focused more on recovering balls (3) and winning aerial duels (3) than on creating danger. He wasn't the Güler who captivated in Türkiye nor the one Madrid fans want to see.
Ancelotti Avoids Criticism
The Italian coach is a master at managing the locker room. He knows when to speak and when to remain silent. And with Güler, he chose prudence.
While he was clear in his praise for Endrick, with the Turk he simply said: "He contributed a lot defensively."
A response that says a lot without saying anything. He didn't mention his play with the ball, his creativity, or his offensive impact.
He simply highlighted his work without the ball. A message between the lines that makes it clear his performance wasn't as expected.
A Warning for Güler
It's not the end of the world for the young Turk, but it is a warning sign. In a team like Madrid, where competition is fierce, every opportunity counts. Endrick seized his, while Güler, on the other hand, didn't leave a mark.
The season will still give him more minutes, but he needs to loosen up and show his talent. Ancelotti won't point him out publicly, but he won't hand out opportunities either. At Madrid, only those who perform find their place, and Güler must react.