Real Madrid: Grading every loanee from the 2020-21 season

Arsenal CM Dani Ceballos

Whereas Madridistas had no real expectations for Jesus Vallejo at Granada this season, they had some hopes for Dani Ceballos at Arsenal. Although he struggled to gain a foothold in the XI for much of the 2019-2020 season, Ceballos played a key role that summer for the Gunners under Mikel Arteta. There was a belief that if the former Real Betis man turned up well in 2020-2021, he could earn a permanent move to North London.

That move won’t be happening. Ceballos is back at Real after taking a huge step back in the 2020-2021 season. He made more headlines for his poor decision-making than he did for his play on the pitch, and he frustrated Arsenal fans much more this season for taking too long on the ball.

A better fit for a LaLiga side, Ceballos is a candidate to move back to Real Betis if Los Verdiblancos can fork over the money. Otherwise, he will be another reclamation project for Carlo Ancelotti.

Rating: 4.5

Villarreal/Getafe AM Takefusa Kubo

Takefusa Kubo actually played for two teams in the 2020-2021 season. Real Madrid first sent him on loan to Villarreal, and Madridistas were hopeful that the Japanese international would blossom under Unai Emery, who seemed to have big plans for the young man who shined at Mallorca the season before in LaLiga.

Instead, Kubo barely played, grew frustrated, and was allowed to leave on a new loan to Getafe and Jose Bordalas. Getafe were terrible and Kubo also came off the bench more than he started, though he did at least feature more frequently.

Kubo’s only memorable moment was a goal to save Getafe from relegation. He didn’t fit Getafe’s playing style and didn’t get to shine. Real Madrid must now think of a new loan for Kubo next season, though I’m sure they are encouraged by his excellent play in the Europa League group stages while with the Yellow Submarine.

Rating: 5.0