Dani Ceballos's future at Real Madrid is once again in doubt. The Andalusian midfielder is going through one of the most delicate moments of his career. Neither the passing of the years nor the changes on the bench have changed the situation.
With Xabi Alonso's arrival as the new coach, many thought the script could change. Nothing could be further from the truth. The Basque coach has been firm at all times and hasn't wanted the player to be misled by empty promises.
A negotiation that fell apart
In recent weeks, the Olympique de Marseille option seemed the strongest to unlock Ceballos's future. The French club had shown real interest, but talks eventually cooled off. The deal fell through for financial reasons and also due to sporting doubts.
Marseille didn't want to commit to paying a high transfer fee or to taking on a significant salary for a player who hasn't managed to take off. Thus, the move collapsed and the midfielder remains in the Spanish capital awaiting a new opportunity.
Betis returns to the scene
In this scenario, Real Betis reappears, Ceballos's original club to which he has always been emotionally linked. From Villamarín, they've explored the possibility of bringing him back, although the feasibility of the deal isn't simple either.
The verdiblanco club is looking for ways to fit both the cost and the player's salary, but they don't want to put its financial balance at risk. Meanwhile, Ceballos wouldn't mind returning home, although he knows time is running against him as the market's closure draws nearer.
Xabi Alonso doesn't hide
Meanwhile, Xabi Alonso has wanted to be clear and direct with the player. He has told him bluntly that if he stays at Real Madrid, his role will be marginal. He'd only have opportunities in the event of a string of injuries in midfield, something unlikely.
"If you stay at Real Madrid, you'll play little or not at all," Xabi Alonso has told the player to his face.
The coach doesn't want Ceballos to live under false expectations. He prefers to be honest now and avoid complaints about a lack of prominence in the future. For Alonso, the best thing would be for him to find a destination where he could play regularly, but he'll accept his presence in the squad if he can't leave, because he has a valid contract.
Future hanging in the air
The situation is complicated and the clock is ticking. Ceballos remains in no man's land, with Marseille's door closed, Betis's interest lingering, and a coach who doesn't count on him. The outcome could come in the final hours of the market, but the feeling is clear: his time at Real Madrid is closer to the end than ever.