Real Madrid: Is there tension between Zinedine Zidane and Dani Ceballos?
By Ben Sundock
When Real Madrid signed midfielder Dani Ceballos from Real Betis in 2017, he was always pegged as being a depth guy who would help out Toni Kroos and Luka Modric. But, manager Zinedine Zidane didn’t use the Spaniard nearly enough, which forced him to go out on loan this season. Is there tension?
Dani Ceballos is panning out to be another casualty in the Real Madrid transfer market. We have seen players like Theo Hernandez, Danilo, and even Alvaro Odriozola brought to the Santiago Bernabeu who have not lasted through the length of their first contract.
Having made a name for himself with Real Betis’ first-team after making his first senior appearance at 16 years old during the 2013/2014 season, Ceballos’ time with Los Blancos has been tumultuous and the player’s frustration was boiling over towards the back half of last season.
Through two seasons in Madrid, Ceballos has made 55 appearances and 28 starts. In four season with Real Betis, the playmaking midfielder made 105 appearances and 74 starts. While Dani did not expect to have a prominent role with Los Blancos, he was expecting much more time than he was offered.
Because of the lacking minutes and regular starts in La Liga, there could be tension growing between Zidane and Ceballos.
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In a recent interview on Movistar, Ceballos said he has not spoken with the manager since leaving for London in August.
"“No, we’ve not spoken since I left Real Madrid. I don’t think he needs to talk to players out on loan. I think he has to focus on the 23 players that he has.”"
While the comments seem rather mundane, this indicates to me that Dani Ceballos is hiding something bigger that is bothering him and is causing problems with Zinedine Zidane.
It is worth noting that while Zidane was away from the club during the 2018/2019 season when Julen Lopetegui and Santiago Solari were in charge, Ceballos was receiving regular minutes and made 20 league appearances.
When Zizou returned to the helm, Ceballos received just three appearances and didn’t amass 200 minutes despite being healthy.
Although Dani has not spoken with the boss, he did say he remains in touch with some of the higher-ups at Real Madrid.
"“I’ve been in touch with Emilio Butragueno, Jose Angel Sanchez, and the club’s recovery specialists during the time I was out injured. When you arrive at Real Madrid, you realize how big it is. As well as football, there’s the human side.”"
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So, while on the surface Dani Ceballos is trying to remain professional, it is clear that there is tension between him and the manager.
I wouldn’t be that surprised if Dani pushed for a stay with the Gunners come the summer because of his love for the city, the competition of the Premier League, and a more regular role in the midfield.
Real Madrid would be smart to entertain an offer from Arsenal as Ceballos’ value has spiked in the last 12 months, according to TransfrMarkt. Los Blancos bought the player for €18 million and could sell him for around €35 million if value estimates are correct.