Real Madrid legend Toni Kroos has expressed his support for rising star Arda Güler, asserting that he is capable of having a decisive season under Xabi Alonso.
Alonso has impressed on his return to Madrid, having agreed to replace Carlo Ancelotti in May, but his team is still developing.
The crushing 4-0 defeat to Paris Saint-Germain in the Club World Cup semi-final highlighted the challenges facing Real Madrid, with Turkish midfielder Guler coming under fire for his subpar defensive performance.
Kroos has backed youngster Guler to learn from his experience, and in the end, his attacking influence makes up for his defensive shortcomings.
"If you had a player like that, capable of playing between the lines, I wouldn't mind turning a blind eye to him if he didn't defend well on a given ball," Kroos told Football Espana.
He added, "What is important is the clarity of his role and his participation in the team's defensive effort."
He continued: "Alonso has given him a lot of playing time so far. Last season, he was ready football-wise, but he's developed significantly physically."
Guler has scored just one goal in the Club World Cup, but provided two assists in his team's quarter-final win over Borussia Dortmund.
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