Dani Ceballos reveals what he told Jose Mourinho before leaving Real Madrid: ‘Needed to bring things full circle’ | OneFootball

Dani Ceballos has opened up about his decision to leave Real Madrid and return to Real Betis, revealing that he personally spoke to Jose Mourinho before completing his move back to his boyhood club.

Ceballos officially joined Betis on a three-year contract after terminating his Real Madrid agreement earlier this summer. 

Despite having a deal with the Spanish giants until 2027, the midfielder was allowed to leave on a free transfer.

Notably, there was no bitterness in Ceballos’ assessment of his departure. 

Instead, during his official presentation, he thanked Real Madrid, president Florentino Perez and Mourinho for helping him close the final chapter of his career at the Santiago Bernabeu.

Ceballos reveals Mourinho conversation

Ceballos explained that negotiations were not necessarily straightforward, but said he ultimately felt reassured by what Real Madrid told him. 

The midfielder also confirmed that he spoke directly with Mourinho to explain why he wanted to leave.

“There are always complications, but I felt reassured by what the club told me. I trusted them, and I’m here, happy and grateful. And I can only thank Real Madrid. 

“It’s true I had a year left on my contract, but there are chapters that need to be closed. I was able to speak to the club and to Mourinho. 

“I explained my situation to him – I needed to bring things full circle. I have to thank the president because he made it easy,” said Ceballos.

Why Ceballos chose Betis over Madrid

The return to Betis carries obvious personal significance for Ceballos. He came through the club’s academy and made his first-team debut before moving to Real Madrid in 2017.

Almost a decade later, he has returned to Seville with the chance to begin another chapter at the club where his professional journey started.

The midfielder also spoke emotionally about the people and experiences that shaped his time at Madrid.

“I can only thank Real Madrid for everything they’ve done for me, including helping me find the mother of my children – a wonderful family…

“I’ve had loads of messages. I remember the years when it wasn’t possible, and now I have the satisfaction of returning home almost 10 years later. 

“I remember everyone who helped and supported me,” he concluded.

Ceballos’ words offer an interesting perspective on an exit that could easily have become complicated given his contract situation.

Real Madrid had no obligation to release a player who was tied down until 2027, yet the club ultimately allowed him to depart for free. 

Source: Defensa Central