Real Madrid superstar keen to be part of Carlo Ancelotti's pre-season camp despite Euro 2024 involvement - Reports
According to Turkish outlet Fanatik (via Madrid Xtra), Real Madrid midfielder Arda Guler has urged manager Carlo Ancelotti to include him in the preseason tour. This is despite his involvement in the ongoing Euro 2024.
The Turkish international is keen to be a key part of the Los Blancos setup and is willing to sacrifice his holidays to do so. The 19-year-old has been a regular feature for his country at the ongoing European championships but is keen to maintain his exposure to game time.
"There is no need to take me out of the pre-season. I want to be with you even if I have less holidays. I wasted a lot of time last year. I want to join the team as soon as possible."
Arda Guler joined Real Madrid last summer from his boyhood club Fenerbahce but found game time hard to come by in Carlo Ancelotti's team. He didn't disappoint when given the chance to represent Los Blancos though. He scored six goals in 12 games across competitions to help the iconic club to La Liga, Supercopa de Espana and UEFA Champions League glory.
The youngster has been vital for Turkey at Euro 2024, scoring one goal and featuring in all three matches for them so far. Guler will next represent his country in the Round of 16, where he will face Austria on July 2 at Leipzig.
Carlo Ancelotti and Real Madrid enter the race to sign Euro 2024 star
According to a report by Diario AS, Carlo Ancelotti's Real Madrid have entered the race to sign Euro 2024 star Riccardo Calafiori. The Bologna star has attracted attention from the biggest clubs across the continent following his impressive performances for club and country over the last 12 months.
The 22-year-old is a versatile defender comfortable at center-back or left-back. He was a key part of the Bologna team that secured UEFA Champions League football under Thiago Motta. He joined the club from Basel just 12 months ago, playing 37 times, scoring two goals while providing five assists.
Calafiori has also sparkled for the Azzurri since his introduction to the team five games ago. He has established himself as a key part of Luciano Spalletti's team. He provided a crucial assist in Italy's 1-1 draw with Croatia to keep them in Euro 2024. However, he is suspended for their Round of 16 clash against Switzerland on June 29.
While Juventus was initially believed to have the upper hand in acquiring his services, interest from Real Madrid could make his future less clear. It remains to be seen if the defender will choose to remain in Italy or move to the Spanish capital to play under the legendary Carlo Ancelotti.