Xabi Alonso's arrival on the Real Madrid bench may have changed many dynamics that existed in the past. The Basque arrives with his own ideas and with the intention of changing things at Santiago Bernabéu. One figure whose future is in doubt is Dani Ceballos, who has only played 70 minutes spread across four Club World Cup matches.
Decision made with Ceballos
With this in mind, the future of the Utrera native seemed to be a complete mystery, although Xabi Alonso has already made a firm decision. AS has revealed that the Tolosa native wants to keep him for next season. He understands that he needs continuity, although this is something he can't give him.
This means that, if Ceballos wants to stay, he has the door open to do so, but if he wants to leave, he must inform Real Madrid. He is "very comfortable" with Xabi Alonso's arrival, although the truth is that he would have liked to play more in the World Cup. What he is looking for is continuity so he can return to Spain's drafts, something that seems difficult to achieve at Bernabéu.
Despite this, Xabi Alonso's planning includes Dani Ceballos in his squad, believing that he fits into his footballing plan.
He wants more
Dani Ceballos is facing a new stage at Real Madrid with the ambition to take a step forward. At 28 years old, the Utrera midfielder has just completed a season in which he participated in 45 matches, although without a leading role. His numbers (2 assists and no goals) don't reflect everything he can offer, and with Xabi Alonso's arrival on the white bench, he trusts that things will change.
Ceballos has shown his commitment to the club on several occasions, rejecting exits in search of minutes in order to succeed at Santiago Bernabéu. However, the context hasn't been easy. The competition in midfield has been fierce, with names like Kroos, Modric, Camavinga, Valverde, or Bellingham ahead of him in the rotation. Now, with the change on the bench and a squad in full renewal, Dani believes his moment has arrived.
Xabi Alonso knows perfectly well what it means to play in Real Madrid's midfield. His style is based on control, high pressing, and movement between the lines, a scenario that can favor Ceballos's qualities: vision, combination ability, and good tactical reading. The player wants to make himself noticed from preseason and show that he is ready to take on more responsibility.
In addition, Ceballos has a valid contract and isn't considering a short-term exit. He is determined to fight for a spot and earn the new coach's trust. He knows it won't be easy, but he also knows that few opportunities will be as decisive as this one. Xabi Alonso's era is beginning, and Dani Ceballos wants to be an important piece in the new white project.