Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti has vowed to provide Spanish midfielder Dani Ceballos increased playing time for the upcoming 2022-2023 campaign. According to reports from Spanish outlet AS, Ancelotti promised Ceballos a bigger role ahead of the 26-year-old signing a new four-year contract extension with Los Blancos last week.
Ceballos was close to ending his time at the Bernabeu this summer as his previous contract was set to expire on June 30. However, after Ancelotti’s promise of more minutes, Ceballos opted to recommit to Real Madrid until 2027.
Also Read: The Future of Ceballos Remains Uncertain at Real Madrid.
Playing time has been scarce for Ceballos over the last two seasons, with the Spaniard starting just 19 La Liga matches last year. He found himself behind Toni Kroos, Luka Modric, Federico Valverde and Eduardo Camavinga in Real Madrid’s midfield pecking order. Now, with 19-year-old sensation Jude Bellingham joining the squad, Ceballos’ concerns about his role seemed justified.
Ancelotti, though, sees value in Ceballos and has vowed to grant the tenacious midfielder more opportunities, especially as veterans Kroos and Modric age. The manager is likely to rest the aging duo more often, paving the way for Ceballos to feature prominently.
That said, sources close to Ceballos have not ruled out the possibility of a season-long loan for 2023-2024. Ceballos is eager to represent Spain at Euro 2024, and a loan would guarantee him the playing time needed to earn a national team call-up.
Also Read: Aston Villa and Wolves Eyeing Up Midfield Maestro Dani Ceballos.
A temporary move could benefit all parties, with Ceballos gaining valuable minutes before potentially taking over for Kroos or Modric, who may have moved on from Real Madrid by then.
Carlo Ancelotti Promises Dani Ceballos More Minutes Next Season
Ancelotti’s promise has cemented Ceballos’ place at Real Madrid for now. However, if his role does not expand as hoped, a loan exit could be on the cards to ensure he achieves his goal of playing at Euro 2024.
Ceballos has the talent, but needs consistent minutes to fulfill his potential as he enters his prime years. Real Madrid and Spain stand to benefit should Ancelotti make good on his word.
