Arda Güler named Champions League breakthrough player of the season
01.06.2026 - 09:39 | Last Updated:
Real Madrid and Türkiye star Arda Güler has been named UEFA Champions League Breakthrough Player of the Season after a campaign that showcased his growing influence on Europe’s biggest stage.
Arda Güler has been recognized as the UEFA Champions League Breakthrough Player of the Season, capping off a standout campaign for the young Real Madrid midfielder.
In announcing the award, UEFA highlighted Güler’s impact throughout the tournament, particularly his performance against Juventus during the league phase. The governing body praised the 21-year-old for bringing creativity and control to Real Madrid’s midfield, a display that earned him Player of the Match honors.
Güler finished the Champions League season with two goals and four assists. Both of his goals came in Real Madrid’s quarterfinal clash against Bayern Munich, underlining his ability to deliver in high-pressure matches.
The award represents another major milestone in the rapid rise of one of European soccer’s most promising young talents. After establishing himself as a key player for both Real Madrid and the Turkish national team, Güler is increasingly being viewed as one of the future stars of the game.
Meanwhile, UEFA named Khvicha Kvaratskhelia of Paris Saint-Germain as the Champions League Player of the Season.
UEFA credited the Georgian winger with playing a central role in PSG’s successful title defense. Operating primarily on the left flank, Kvaratskhelia scored 10 goals and provided six assists during the competition. Across all competitions, the 25-year-old recorded 19 goals in 48 appearances for the French champions.
UEFA also unveiled its Champions League Team of the Season, which was dominated by PSG players following the club’s second consecutive European title. Five players from Paris Saint-Germain were selected, alongside three from Arsenal, two from Bayern Munich and one from Atlético Madrid.
The Best XI featured David Raya in goal; Marcos Llorente, Marquinhos, Gabriel Magalhães and Nuno Mendes in defense; Michael Olise, Declan Rice, Vitinha and Kvaratskhelia in midfield; with Ousmane Dembélé and Harry Kane leading the attack.
For Turkish soccer fans, however, the headline achievement belonged to Güler, whose emergence as one of the competition’s brightest young stars was officially recognized by UEFA after a breakthrough season in Europe.
