Güler-Mbappé: thirteen assists seal a budding friendship at Real Madrid

Kylian Mbappé has found in Real Madrid a perfect partner in Arda Güler. Since the French striker’s arrival at the Merengues, the Turkish attacking midfielder has delivered thirteen assists to him, a total that equals Vinicius Junior’s over the same period, according to figures reported by Spanish newspaper Marca.

The relationship between the two players goes beyond the sporting sphere. Mbappé posted on his social media a photo with Güler, accompanied by the word “Habibi” — an Arabic term designating someone close and dear. A gesture that illustrates a friendship that is already seemingly solid, despite only a few months having passed since the two men have shared the same dressing room.

This understanding recalls the one Mbappé maintained at Paris Saint-Germain with Achraf Hakimi, his long-time friend who remained in the French capital. In Spain, it is therefore Güler who appears to have taken on this role of confidant and privileged accomplice.

The two players find themselves in opposing camps this Sunday, on the occasion of France-Turkey in the UEFA Nations League (matchday 6). A brief international break: Real Madrid calls up its entire squad from Monday to resume training. The Madrid club hosts Celta Vigo on November 21 for matchday 13 of La Liga, and both Mbappé and Güler are expected to start.