Jose Mourinho has backed Real Madrid starlet Arda Guler to follow in the footsteps of Luka Modric and Bernardo Silva by evolving from an attacking midfielder into a deeper-lying playmaker as his career progresses.

Guler, who predominantly operates as a number 10 for Los Blancos, has been a revelation since joining the club in the summer of 2023. The 21-year-old Turkish international has racked up an impressive 18 goals and 24 assists in 112 appearances for Real Madrid, making him one of the most productive young talents in European football.

Only Vinicius Junior (35), Jude Bellingham (32), and Federico Valverde (28) have registered more assists than Guler across the last three seasons for Real Madrid — and all three have played in at least 28 more games than the young Turk. Last term, including the Club World Cup, Guler led the squad in both assists (16) and chances created (119).

Mourinho's Vision for Guler's Future

Despite Guler's effectiveness in the final third, Mourinho sees a different long-term trajectory for the player. Speaking to El Chiringuito, the Portuguese manager drew parallels between Guler and two of football's most celebrated midfielders.

"I love Guler," Mourinho said. "I think something similar to what happened to Modric or Bernardo Silva will happen to him; you start in one position and end up in another, you start as a number 10 and you'll end up as an eight or a six."

"I think Arda will go in that direction with his evolution and his understanding of the game."

The comparison is a significant one. Luka Modric transformed from a creative attacking force at Tottenham into one of the greatest deep-lying midfielders in Real Madrid history, while Bernardo Silva has similarly drifted into deeper roles at Manchester City, orchestrating play from withdrawn positions.

Strong Pre-Season Form

Guler has already impressed during pre-season, recording assists in wins over Schalke and Leganes. However, his starting spot could face competition as Real Madrid prepare to launch their LaLiga campaign on Saturday against Espanyol at RCDE Stadium. Bellingham is returning from an extended break, while summer signing Yan Diomande also featured in the final pre-season clash against Schalke.

On the international stage, Guler recently scored for Turkiye in their only win at the 2026 World Cup — a 3-2 victory over co-hosts the United States — further cementing his reputation as one of the brightest young talents in world football.