Real Madrid experienced a victorious night at Carlos Tartiere. The 3-0 win over Real Oviedo confirmed the team's good form, but it left a bittersweet feeling among the Madridists.
The controversy surrounding Vinícius once again made headlines. In addition, a message from Dani Ceballos on social media opened a new front of concern. The midfielder doesn't seem to find his place in Xabi Alonso's plans.
An increasingly reduced role
The match against Oviedo was another example of the situation Ceballos is going through. The Andalusian midfielder had to wait until the 86th minute to enter the field. With the result already decided, he barely had a chance to participate and show his football.
So far this season, his presence has been merely symbolic. The competition in midfield is fierce: Valverde, Tchouameni, Camavinga, and the young Arda Güler are ahead of him in the rotation. Moreover, Jude Bellingham's return after his injury will further reduce his chances. As of today, Ceballos is the sixth midfielder for Xabi.
A message that causes concern
Hours after the match, Dani Ceballos posted a brief but loaded message on his social media. He didn't mention his situation directly, but the tone hinted at frustration.
At a time when the transfer market is still open, any sign carries weight. His words, ambiguous but significant, have fueled rumors about a possible departure. The feeling is that the player is at a crossroads and that patience is starting to run out.
The market context
Real Madrid doesn't plan to make major changes to the squad at the last minute. However, in soccer, nothing is set in stone. If an offer arrives that benefits the club and the player, the door to a departure could open.
In Ceballos's case, it will depend on whether a team is willing to make a strong bid for him. So far, no firm proposals have been reported. The Andalusian renewed not long ago, convinced he would have an important role, but the sporting reality has changed.
Meanwhile, Xabi Alonso remains firm in his approach. He prefers profiles with more physical range and presence in the box. Fitting Ceballos into this plan seems complicated.
An uncertain future
The season is long and unexpected opportunities may arise. Injuries, rotations, and suspensions can open up space. But for now, the outlook doesn't encourage optimism for the player.
The message on social media could simply be a way to express his discomfort. Or perhaps a sign that he's willing to listen to offers. In any case, the relationship between his expectations and his sporting reality is more strained than ever.
The next step will depend both on him and the market. If he stays, he'll have to fight against the odds to earn minutes. If he leaves, he'll look for a place where he feels like a protagonist. The only clear thing is that Ceballos has gone from being a player with potential to a possible candidate to leave.