Real Madrid midfielder Arda Güler has emerged as Europe’s leading performer in a key creative category following an impressive start to the season under manager José Mourinho.

The 21-year-old Turkish international has become an increasingly influential figure in Madrid’s attacking setup, with his vision, dribbling ability and quality from set pieces strengthening his importance to the Portuguese coach’s plans.

According to figures reported by Cadena SER, Güler averages 5.26 passes leading to a shot per match, the highest rate among players in Europe. The statistic highlights his growing ability to unlock opposition defences and create scoring opportunities through his technical quality and awareness.

His development has also been reflected in significant improvements in other aspects of his game, particularly his delivery from set pieces and ability to beat opponents with the ball at his feet.

Under former manager Xabi Alonso, Güler reportedly averaged 0.83 chances created from set pieces per game. That figure has increased to 2.54 under Mourinho, representing more than a threefold rise and underlining the greater influence he is having in dead-ball situations.

The midfielder has also improved his dribbling output. His average number of successful dribbles has risen from 1.05 per match during Alonso’s tenure to 1.75 under Mourinho, suggesting that he is becoming more effective at carrying possession forward and overcoming defenders.

These figures indicate that Güler is developing into a more complete attacking midfielder rather than relying solely on his passing ability. His capacity to progress the ball, navigate tight spaces and create danger from set pieces gives Real Madrid additional ways to threaten opponents.

Mourinho’s willingness to deploy the youngster in different positions has further increased his tactical value. Güler has featured on the right wing as well as in a deeper midfield role, allowing the manager to use his creativity in different areas depending on the demands of a match.

His ability to operate centrally could be particularly useful for Madrid when facing opponents who defend deep and restrict space around the penalty area. With his passing range and vision, the Turkish international can help the team break through compact defensive structures and create openings for its forwards.

His improvement from set pieces also provides Madrid with another potential source of goals. Accurate corners and free-kicks can prove decisive in tightly contested matches, particularly when teammates are capable of capitalising on deliveries inside the box.

Güler’s progress comes at an important stage of the campaign, with the upcoming El Clasico against Barcelona offering a significant opportunity to demonstrate his development. Barcelona’s pressing and ability to dominate possession could make the encounter a difficult examination of Madrid’s midfield options.

However, Güler’s creativity may provide Mourinho’s side with a valuable route to breaking through their rivals’ defensive organisation and generating chances in dangerous areas.

A strong performance against Barcelona would further underline his growing importance and strengthen his claim for a regular starting position. Mourinho will be encouraged by the midfielder’s improvement, although sustaining his impressive creative numbers throughout the season will be the next major test.