Following Xabi Alonso's arrival at Real Madrid, it was desired that Dani Ceballos could become more important, as he's a midfielder who fits his play style. Nevertheless, he was the only first-team player who ended up with zero during the first match against Al-Hilal, raising some doubts around Ceballos. He has been training under his orders since day one, but it seems he just doesn't convince him...
Xabi Alonso opens the doors
The 28-year-old from Utrera is clear that he wants to feel important, even if that means leaving Real Madrid. He doesn't want to waste time and is considering all the options on the table. Some voices suggest that his benching against Al-Hilal was a tactic by Xabi Alonso so that Florentino Pérez signs the top-level midfielder he's demanding.
Dani Ceballos has different qualities from the rest, but they just don't fit Xabi Alonso. He preferred to try Güler as playmaker and then reinforce him with Modric. The latter seems to have especially upset the Andalusian, especially considering that the Croatian won't stay after the Club World Cup.
Betis coming for Ceballos
Given this scenario, the summer rumor that's been circulating for the past few years has resurfaced. Sport has revealed that Betis would be "crazy about the idea," trying to secure the desired return of Ceballos to Seville.
The problem, as always, is the financial factor. Real Madrid would want to make a profit from selling Dani Ceballos, having valued him at about €20 million to recover the investment made in 2017.
With a contract until 2027, Ceballos hopes they'll make it easier for him to leave if Xabi Alonso ultimately decides to let him go. This would force Real Madrid to lower the amount they're currently asking for. The player from Utrera is clear: if he leaves, his priority is to wear Betis's jersey again, where he wants to retire as a professional.
As of today, to be clear, the situation isn't clear at all and will depend on how the weeks progress. In any case, Real Madrid isn't closing any doors.