Jose Mourinho is well established at the San Bernabeu in his second round. A miss against Espanyol in La Liga has been the only sign of weakness so far, the Portuguese has created peace of mind after a chaotic last season with Xabi Alonso, then Alvara Arbeloa. Two Premier League clubs probably listened particularly closely, when Mourinho was asked if one of the players both are chasing.
It was Mourinho’s statement that Arda Güler is not “untochable”, which was recorded with great interest at Stamford Bridge and the Emirates.
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Mourinho was asked directly about Güler, if the Turkish playmaker had made himself indispensable in Real Madrid’s starting eleven.
“No, no one is untouchable. When I made the changes, it was precisely because we lost control. Arda, also lost its intensity.”
Mourinho’s comments came after he substituted Güler midway through the second half, confirming that no player at the Santiago Bernabeu is guaranteed a starting spot regardless of reputation.
Mourinho’s response has given a new boost to long-time admirer Chelsea. Xabi Alonso has pointed to his former Turkish player, according to Caughtoffisde’s sources, Chelsea are preparing a €100 million bid for Güler in January.
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The Blues have been keeping a close eye on the 21-year-old’s situation as he faces intense competition for playing time in the Spanish capital.
Chelsea see Guler as a generational talent, who can instantly transform their attacking dynamic at Stamford Bridge. Arsenal also have a strong interest in the Turkish international, but the gang from Stamford Bridge have manoeuvred themselves into pole position.
