NYON — Real Madrid midfielder Arda Güler has been officially recognized as the 2025/26 UEFA Champions League Revelation of the Season. The award, selected by the UEFA Technical Observer Group, replaces the former "Young Player of the Season" accolade to better highlight players who have achieved a true breakthrough during the campaign.
A Landmark Campaign
Güler’s 2025/26 season marked a massive transition from a squad player to a key engine in the Real Madrid midfield. His statistical jump illustrates his growth:
• Appearances: 14 (up from 7 in 24/25)
• Minutes Played: 1,030 (up from 142 in 24/25)
• Impact: 2 goals and 4 assists
The Turkish international’s maturity was on full display during Madrid's pivotal quarter-final second leg against Bayern Munich, where he netted his first two Champions League goals. He also earned a "Player of the Match" distinction earlier in the season for his masterful control during Madrid's league-phase victory over Juventus.
Understanding the "Revelation" Criteria
UEFA created this award to focus on development rather than simply identifying established world-class stars. To be eligible, a player must be no older than 21 at the start of the season and can win the honor only once. The criteria focuses on:
• Measurable impact on team performance.
• Exceptional individual skill shown under pressure.
• Notable progression and consistency relative to age.
Roll of Honor: Recent Winners
Güler joins a prestigious lineage of young talents who previously claimed the Young Player of the Season award before it was rebranded:
• 2025/26: Arda Güler (Real Madrid)
• 2024/25: Désiré Doué (Paris)
• 2023/24: Jude Bellingham (Real Madrid)
• 2022/23: Khvicha Kvaratskhelia (Napoli)
• 2021/22: Vinícius Júnior (Real Madrid)
