Three reasons why extending Ceballos’ loan to Arsenal makes sense for Real Madrid

Real Madrid had an intriguing decision to make about Dani Ceballos’ future when his loan deal with Arsenal expired after the FA Cup Final won by the London-based club. On one hand, Los Blancos could bring Ceballos back and keep him in the squad for depth purposes. Ceballos had completed an encouraging second half of the season for Arsenal and appeared ready to be Modric or Kroos’ backup this upcoming season. On the other hand, the Spanish midfielder has never been in coach Zinedine Zidane’s plans and cannot afford another wasted season. Here’s why extending Ceballos’ loan deal makes sense.

1. Ceballos had completed his adaptation to the Premier League. This is a process that sometimes gets overlook but it’s crucial for a midfielder to get used to a new system, a new league and new teammates. Sending Ceballos to another club wouldn’t make much sense as the midfielder would have to earn his spot and the confidence of his new coach once again. Meanwhile, Arsenal coach Mikel Arteta proved that he trusts Ceballos by giving him a relevant role during the last third of the season. The midfielder performed well and showed that he is ready to make an impact in the very first game of the 2020-2021 season.
2. Ceballos wants and needs to play. The Spanish midfielder likes his chances of featuring in the 2021 Euro and therefore wants to be as relevant as possible this season, something he would not be able to achieve for Real Madrid. At this point of his career, Ceballos just needs to keep gaining confidence and experience at a quality club and that’s what he will get at Arsenal. If he can perform at a high level for the whole season, his case of being a relevant player for Madrid in 2021 will be heard.
3. Real Madrid just don’t need him right now. Yes, he could play some games here and there, mainly in the Copa del Rey or/if when Modric and Kroos need rest. Still, with Isco staying on the team and Odegaard and Valverde also needing minutes, Ceballos would struggle for minutes, which would affect his confidence once again. Keeping the Spanish midfielder and wasting another season for just a handful of games makes no sense.