Real Madrid midfielder issues emotional apology after World Cup elimination: ‘Will do everything to make people forget this tournament’

Real Madrid midfielder issues emotional apology after World Cup elimination: ‘Will do everything to make people forget this tournament’

Real Madrid midfielder Arda  Guler has publicly apologised to Turkish supporters after Turkey’s World Cup campaign came to a shocking end following a 0-1 defeat to Paraguay in their second group-stage match.

The result confirmed Turkey’s elimination from the tournament and brought an abrupt end to what was supposed to be a historic return to the World Cup after a 24-year absence. 

Expectations had been high heading into the competition, particularly with  Guler viewed as the face of a talented new generation capable of leading the national team onto the biggest stage.

Instead, Turkey leave the tournament without scoring a single goal and with just two matches played, making it one of the most disappointing campaigns in the country’s recent football history.

Guler unable to hide frustration

The disappointment was evident on the face of the Real Madrid playmaker after the final whistle.

Turkey has been eliminated from the World Cup. (Photo by Richard Heathcote/Getty Images)

Guler entered the tournament carrying enormous expectations after a strong season at club level, with many believing he would be the player capable of inspiring Turkey’s return to international relevance. 

However, the midfielder was unable to make the decisive impact many had hoped for as the team struggled throughout the competition.

Speaking after the defeat, the 21-year-old delivered a heartfelt message to supporters and accepted responsibility for the team’s failure.

“There really isn’t much to say. We’re very sad; we feel ashamed. We apologise to our entire nation. 

Arda Guler has issued a sincere apology. (Photo by Richard Heathcote/Getty Images)

“Throughout my career with the national team, I’ll do everything I can to make people forget this tournament,” he said, according to AS.

Guler admits Turkey fell below expectations

Notably, Guler did not stop with a single apology, as the midfielder openly acknowledged that the Turkish squad possessed enough quality to perform far better than they ultimately did and admitted the players failed to deliver when it mattered most.

“We play for some very big clubs; we should have shown that on the pitch. There’s no issue with our camaraderie. 

“We simply couldn’t do what we wanted on the pitch; we couldn’t score goals. Zero goals in two matches is unacceptable. We didn’t manage it. We’re sorry,” he concluded.