The former Manchester United defender Rio Ferdinand has sparked debate after expressing his views on Real Madrid’s current midfield this season.
In a recent social media post, Rio Ferdinand expressed his thoughts on midfield. In the interview, the former Red Devils player praised Arda Guler’s talent but warned Los Blancos about missing a midfield “controller.”
Ferdinand’s comments highlighted the absence of Toni Kroos, who announced his retirement from professional football in the 2023-24 season, and 38-year-old Luka Modrić, who is been approaching the twilight of his successful career.
While the Whites have a decent amount of talent in the midfield with the experience and gameplay for players like Luka Modrić, Jude Bellingham, Camavinga, Aurelien Tchouameni, Federico Valverde, and Arda Guler.
The former defender still believes that the team lacks a player such as Toni Kroos who can control the tempo of the game.
“Arda Güler… Real Madrid have a problem,” Ferdinand posted on X (formerly Twitter). “Toni Kroos retired, and Luka Modrić isn’t getting any younger. This Madrid team needs a controller, manipulator, and rhythm maker. They have great players, but are missing this important ingredient in their mix of players now.”
Real Madrid is been looking forward to making a significant transition in its midfield. The club’s midfield has been a very important element in its victories and achievements.
With the trio of Luca Modric, Toni Kroos, and Casemiro, the club has won many titles in the past. With the departure of Casemiro to Manchester United and the retirement of Toni Kroos, Real Madrid’s midfield has experienced a major setback in performance.
Arda Guler, who was seen as a potential replacement for Toni Kroos and also sometimes termed as the next Ozil of Real Madrid, has shown some good flashes of his gameplay and football IQ.
However, Ferdinand still suggests that the 19-year-old is not ready to fit into the steps of Toni Kroos yet. This is, however, true because of the lack of minutes and gameplay by Carlo Ancelotti.
Real Madrid is Looking Ahead
With the summer transfer window approaching, Real Madrid may be forced to act. The need for a player who can control tempo and offer the same composure and intelligence as Kroos could define their strategy in the months to come.
Whether Güler evolves into that player or Madrid turns to the market remains to be seen.
