Dani Ceballos will complete the season with Arsenal even if it goes on past June 30th, according to quotes from the player this week.
The Evening Standard previously reported Arsenal were confident they could reach an agreement to extend Ceballos’ season loan until July, if necessary. It’s very possible the campaign will go on beyond June 30th, when all season-long loan contracts expire.
Ceballos explained to El Chiringuito de Jugones that he has to stay, even if the season goes on past that date, and make himself important to the side.
“I finish my contract on June 30 but I would have to [continue to] play for Arsenal [when football returns],” Ceballos said. “I don’t know how [that would work].
“It would be irresponsible from my side to talk about my future. The most important thing will be for me to be important for my new team.”
Ceballos is up to 24 appearances for the season so far. That tally would also be significantly higher if not for his mid-season injury. It took a while for him to convince Arteta to put him back in afterwards, but by the time football stopped, he was a key starter.
The midfielder played in all three recent league games against Newcastle, Everton and West Ham. He also played 74 minutes of the FA Cup win over Portsmouth, albeit from the bench. The fact Arsenal won all four matches certainly won him some favour.
What happens with Ceballos next year is certainly up for debate. For the time being, however, it’s good to know he’s available for the rest of the season.