Jose Mourinho says no Real Madrid player is untouchable after substituting Arda Güler in a late win over Elche

On Tuesday, 15 September 2026, Real Madrid manager Jose Mourinho said no player in his squad was untouchable, after a last-gasp LaLiga win over Elche.

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Carlos Espi scored late to take all three points. Arda Güler had given Real Madrid the lead with a free-kick, then was substituted in the 68th minute.

Jose Mourinho was asked about that change and said he felt the midfielder was losing intensity.

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“He is not untouchable. In fact, no one has such status,” Jose Mourinho said. “When I make changes, it is usually because the team is losing control of the game. Arda played in the ‘number ten’ position, which requires covering a large part of the pitch. Therefore, he gradually began to lose intensity.”