Real Madrid midfielder admits World Cup criticism was deserved after elimination:

Real Madrid midfielder admits World Cup criticism was deserved after elimination: Real Madrid youngster Arda Guler has openly accepted responsibility for Turkey’s disappointing World Cup campaign, admitting both his own performances and those of the team fell short of expectations. Despite ending their tournament with a dramatic 3-2 victory over the United States, Turkey had already been eliminated before the final group-stage match. The win offered a positive conclusion but could not erase the frustration of defeats to Australia and Paraguay in their opening two fixtures. Guler accepts responsibility The Real Madrid midfielder delivered an honest assessment after the match, acknowledging that criticism from supporters and the media was fully justified. “The criticism is justified. Whatever they say, they’re right. I didn’t play well. None of us played well. We have to accept it. Hopefully, we can make up for it in the upcoming matches,” Arda admitted. Guler scored for Turkey vs USA. (Photo by Fran Santiago/Getty Images) His goal against the United States did provide one personal milestone, making him the youngest Turkish player ever to score at a FIFA World Cup. A poor World Cup for Guler After a strong season with Real Madrid, there were a lot of expectations on Guler heading into the World Cup. After all, the 21-year-old playmaker had finished with a return of six goals and 14 assists from 51 matches in all competitions. As such, he was seen as the main difference-maker for Turkey at the biggest football tournament in the world. However, it was not to be for the youngster as he was unable to make an impact of the level expected of him. Guler will start pre-season next month. (Photo by Fran Santiago/Getty Images) Guler crashes out of the tournament in North America with just one goal and no assists to show for with Turkey from three group games. Now, with his team crashing out at the group stage, Guler will go on a holiday and join Real Madrid’s pre-season camp under new manager Jose Mourinho starting on 13 July. The young midfielder faces a stiff challenge after returning the club, given the increased competition for places in the team following the signing of Bernardo Silva and the expected arrival of another creative midfielder.