Fenerbahçe SK came into both legs with 2 wins since the start of 2022 as they go on an average form coming into both legs. Fenerbahçe played against SK Slavia Prague in the Europa Conference League and lost the game at an aggregate of 6-4, being knocked out in the process. Fenerbahçe played in a 4-2-3-1 formation, with one of the midfielders dropping into the defence to create a 3-man build up. Slavia Prague were dominating in front of goal in both legs and used up as much time needed for the team to win the game comfortably through medical attention and substitutions.
Ratings:
- A1 – Very good, could play higher
- A2 – Strong potential to play higher
- B1 – Good, strong player at level
- B2 – Potential to be strong player at level
- C – Average for the level, re-watch
- D – Below average in this match
Arda Güler
Player Profile:
- Nationality: Turkish
- Age: 17
- Date of birth: 25/02/2005
- Club: Fenerbahçe
- Career: Fenerbahçe
- Position: Attacking Midfielder
- Secondary position: Central Midfielder, Right Winger
- Preferred foot: Left
Arda Güler burst into the Fenerbahçe first team at the age of 16 years old and was slowly being integrated into the first team. He played a total of 56 mins in both legs against Slavia Prague was introduced in the 2nd half in both legs. He was deployed as a lone attacking midfielder behind the striker in a 4-2-3-1 formation, occasionally roaming around in different channels and dropping deep in front of his centre-halves. He brought energy to the team, often trying to influence and make an impact as he was always looking to provide his teammate’s support and create chances for the team.
He grabbed himself an assist from a corner to Kadıoğlu which was deflected in and nearly scored a goal when he dribbled past 3 players before his shot was saved and rebounded for Berisha to finish. He played in a higher position in the first leg, whereas in the 2nd leg, he dropped deep often to get involved and influence the game. In both legs he was subbed on, he immediately took responsibility as Fenerbahçe’s corner kick taker, which shows that the coach and teammates have shown faith in him to provide quality set-pieces.
He has top close-dribbling, good technical ability, agility and is able to retain possession of the ball under pressure. Güler does not panic and is able to play it out in tight spaces with his agility and quick footwork. He has the vision to spot his teammates and would quickly transit the ball from defence to attack with his great passing abilities. He has numerous types of passes, such as lofted, driven, outside foot, through ball and line-breaking passes. If he’s not influencing the game by passing, he carries the ball into dangerous areas. He likes to roam around channels to provide an option to pass, play-make or help his teammates to retain possession. He has the tendency to drop deep to provide numerical advantage and passing options. As a left-footer, it is a good sign that Güler could comfortably play with his right foot.
When Fenerbahçe conceded the 3rd goal in the 2nd leg, Güler hurried his teammates and was asking for the ball so the team could restart play. He remained determined to change the result of the game. He would always be seen ignored by his teammates, as he intelligently spotted spaces available for him to vacate or distance himself away from a crowd of attention, to create space for him to exploit.
Güler does not possess lightning speed, or burst of pace but is quick with the ball. At a young age, Güler is expected to make mistakes and have inconsistent decision making. In the 2nd leg, his poor pass almost led Slavia Prague a chance at goal. He isn’t the strongest and may struggle against players who are stronger than him.
Rating: A2
At the age of 17 years old, Güler plays like a seasoned professional and has shown great maturity with the way he plays and thinks. He isn’t afraid to take on responsibilities and is willing to influence the game. He has exceptional dribbling and possesses qualities that would make him world-class in the future. Although he did not play a single 90 minutes game in one of the legged games, he showed promising signs of a world-class footballer. He will become one of the best players in the Süper Lig and may come under the radar for top teams in the top 5 leagues in future.
Target Scouting 