Real Madrid midfielder disappointed with Xabi Alonso, open to leaving – report | OneFootball

Dani Ceballos did not play a single minute in Real Madrid’s FIFA Club World Cup debut against Al Hilal – Xabi Alonso’s first match in charge.

Despite warming up on the sidelines, he remained on the bench throughout. The Spaniard was the only fit member of the first-team squad who did not feature.

Ceballos disappointed

Now, according to SPORT, this was a major disappointment for Ceballos, who had hoped to make an impression, particularly as he had been training under Alonso from the very beginning.

It was surprising that the Real Madrid manager did not turn to Ceballos, especially after a poor first half in which Madrid struggled to build any rhythm in midfield.

Under Carlo Ancelotti, Ceballos had worked his way into the rotation during the final months of the Italian’s tenure. The Spaniard provided much-needed fluidity when the team lacked creativity in midfield.

Will Ceballos stay or leave? (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)

Open to a departure

There seems to be a growing belief that Alonso does not count on Ceballos, especially as the manager is pushing the club to sign a new midfielder.

This became evident in the manager’s first match in charge, where he opted to use Arda Guler as a playmaker, supported by Luka Modric, who will leave the club, instead of giving minutes to Ceballos.

The Spanish midfielder is no stranger to this kind of situation. In past seasons, he was already open to leaving but there were no offers that met Real Madrid’s demands. Once again, he would be willing to consider a departure.

Ceballos’ former club, Real Betis, are very keen to bring him back, but the main obstacle is financial: Real Madrid value him at €20 million, while his actual market value is closer to €10 million.