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Real Madrid midfielder Arda Güler is reportedly on track to recover from a hamstring injury in time to feature for Türkiye in a crucial Group D clash against the U.S. men's national team at the 2026 World Cup.
The 21-year-old was substituted off after just 58 minutes in Los Blancos' 2–1 victory over Alavés on Tuesday, following tests that confirmed a muscle injury to the biceps femoris in his right leg.
Real Madrid offered no specific timeline for Güler's return, but The Athletic reports he is set to miss the remainder of the season. The loss of the midfielder is a significant setback for the 15-time European champions, but an even greater concern for Türkiye, who will be anxiously monitoring their star player's fitness with the World Cup fewer than two months away.
The injury is also of notable interest to the USMNT. Mauricio Pochettino's side faces the European nation in their final group game on June 25 at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, California, and being spared from facing a talent like Güler would represent a considerable advantage.
However, The Athletic reports that those close to the player remain "optimistic" that the young Turkish star will be fit enough to participate in the World Cup and represent Türkiye this summer.
USMNT Hopeful for Redemption Against Türkiye
Taking on a fully fit Türkiye side presents a serious challenge for the USMNT. Last June, the two teams met in an international friendly that ended in a 2–1 loss for the Stars and Stripes on their own turf.
Güler delivered a commanding performance that went well beyond his goal in the 24th minute. The Real Madrid star also created two chances, misplaced only five of his 48 passes, and won seven of nine duels.
Pochettino's side had no response to Güler or his teammates, who comfortably controlled the match after USMNT winger Jack McGlynn stunned them with an opener inside the first 60 seconds. It should be noted, however, that several key American players, including Christian Pulisic, were absent from that encounter.
Nevertheless, if recent losses to Belgium and Portugal are any indication, even Pochettino's strongest lineup may struggle to compete with European sides at this summer's World Cup—a prospect that could prove deeply troubling for the USMNT.
Türkiye vs. USMNT Could Decide Group D
Both Türkiye and the USMNT are considered the top two contenders to advance from Group D, which also includes Paraguay and Australia. After a disappointing group-stage exit at Copa América 2024, the Stars and Stripes would likely welcome a place in the round of 32, even if it means finishing second behind Vincenzo Montella's side.
However, should the host nation falter against Paraguay or Australia, their group-stage finale against Türkiye could turn into a must-win situation—a potentially daunting scenario for Pulisic and company.
Montella's squad is currently on a six-game unbeaten run stretching back to October 2025. Türkiye has also lost just three of their last 18 matches, recording impressive results against Hungary, Spain, and Romania along the way.
The USMNT faces a steep challenge come June 25, one that could take on enormous significance if the team fails to impress in their opening two group stage outings.