La Liga
Arda Güler Breaks Silence On Bullying Allegations At Real Madrid
Real Madrid midfielder, Arda Güler, has publicly denied claims that he is being bullied by his teammates, following comments made by a former coach in the Turkish media.
The 19-year-old issued a firm and emotional statement in response to allegations that painted the Real Madrid dressing room as hostile and unwelcoming.
Controversy Emerges Amid Increased Scrutiny at Real Madrid
This season has already placed Real Madrid’s internal dynamics under a sharper spotlight than usual. Questions surrounding the relationship between Xabi Alonso and his players have been heavily debated.
While several flashpoints involving Alonso and Castilla manager Álvaro Arbeloa have also made their way into headlines.
Arda Güler himself has been part of that wider scrutiny after he publicly expressed frustration when substituted in a recent match against Benfica.
These incidents contributed to a narrative of tension inside the club making Pekmezci’s comments even more explosive when they surfaced.
Former Coach Claims Güler Is Being Bullied
On Thursday, Serhat Pekmezci, described as a former coach, mentor, and once the head of scouting involved early in Güler’s development, gave an interview to Turkish media in which he claimed the young midfielder was being bullied and not accepted by the Real Madrid squad.
Pekmezci suggested that strong personalities in the dressing room had created an uncomfortable environment and even hinted that it played a part in Xabi Alonso’s exit.
However, he also stated that these impressions did not come from anything Güler personally told him, leaving the legitimacy of the claims in question.
Güler Responds
Just hours after the interview circulated, Arda Güler decided to address the allegations head-on.
In a statement published by Marca, the Turkish star rejected Pekmezci’s claims and emphasised the positive environment he has experienced at the club.
“I am saddened to see the recent public statements made by former head of scouting Serhat Pekmezci, who played an important role at the beginning of my career.
”From day one, I have been warmly welcomed by everyone at this club and have always considered this place my family. I am extremely proud to be a Real Madrid player and I wish to defend this badge for many more years.”
“We have a very strong team and I feel happy and honored to share the dressing room with all my teammates. I kindly request that no attention be paid to any comments or reports, written or spoken, on this matter.”
A Relationship Misinterpreted?
Pekmezci, who coached Güler during his youth and was involved in his move to Fenerbahçe, appeared to speak from a place of concern. Yet his claims linking supposed bullying to the broader tensions involving senior figures like Alonso and Arbeloa stand in direct contrast to Güler’s own version of events.
His insistence that Güler had “not said anything to him” further adds ambiguity, raising questions about whether the statements were based on inside information or personal interpretation.
