Dani Ceballos: A Crucial Opportunity Awaits Against Celta

After being sidelined in recent matches and facing criticism for a chaotic performance in Athens, Dani Ceballos may be poised for a return to action this Sunday against Celta Vigo. The absence of key players has disrupted Xabi Alonso‘s plans, presenting the Andalusian midfielder with an unexpected chance to reclaim his standing within the squad. As Real Madrid returns to the Santiago Bernabéu, Ceballos could find himself back in the rotation, needing to capitalize on this opportunity.

This season has been a rollercoaster for the Sevilla native, marked by moments of brilliance interspersed with frustrating disappearances. In the last two La Liga fixtures, he hasn’t seen any playing time, which underscores Alonso’s current lack of confidence in him. The turning point came during his performance against Olympiacos, where he entered at halftime for Arda Güler but struggled to maintain possession, allowing the Greeks to mount a comeback. Although Madrid clinched a 4-3 victory that night, Ceballos’ performance was far from reassuring.

Shifting Tactical Landscape

This weekend’s match could present a significant turning point for Ceballos. With Trent Alexander-Arnold sidelined due to injury and Eduardo Camavinga possibly rested ahead of the crucial clash with Manchester City, Real Madrid finds itself short on midfield options. Dani Carvajal remains unavailable, and Fede Valverde might be shifted to right-back as a stopgap solution. Should Alonso stick with his successful 4-4-2 formation from their last outing against Athletic Bilbao, an interior left position could open up, making Ceballos a natural candidate for inclusion.

Competition and Challenges Ahead

The context favors Ceballos—not necessarily due to recent merit but rather through sheer necessity. If Valverde is deployed as a right-back, two midfield slots would become available: one likely going to Güler and the other potentially for Ceballos. This match could serve as a golden opportunity for him to demonstrate his value and prove that he is not destined for a peripheral role within this evolving Real Madrid side.

However, if young Raúl Asencio is preferred at right-back, Ceballos’ chances diminish dramatically. There’s also the looming possibility of reverting to a 4-3-3 formation aimed at celebrating the Bernabéu return with a more offensive style of play. In such a scenario, Aurélien Tchouaméni, Güler, and Jude Bellingham would likely occupy the three central midfield positions, potentially pushing Valverde into the mix and leaving Ceballos completely out of contention.

The competition for playing time is intensifying as well. Franco Mastantuono is eager for minutes following his recovery from injury, while Brahim Díaz and Rodrygo are both pushing for their opportunities to shine. Each player’s desire to contribute places Ceballos further down the pecking order.

For Dani Ceballos, this encounter against Celta could be more than just another chance at starting; it may well be his last opportunity to convince Xabi Alonso that he still deserves a place in this dynamic Real Madrid squad. He must seize it without hesitation.