Dani Ceballos, once seen as the potential heir to Luka Modric at Real Madrid, now stands at a crossroads in his career, marked by injuries and unfulfilled potential.

As he approaches what could be his last significant chance to establish himself at Madrid, Ceballos’ journey reflects a blend of talent and misfortune.

Dani Ceballos’ career at Real Madrid, marked by misfortune and injuries, stands at a crucial juncture, with his role in the team mirroring his seven-season tenure – full of potential yet unfulfilled.

Signed as a potential successor to Luka Modric, Ceballos has struggled to establish himself due to various setbacks.

Since joining Real Madrid from Betis in 2017 for €16.5 million, Ceballos’ journey has been challenging.

His initial season under Zinedine Zidane saw limited game time, leading to a temporary move to Arsenal.

At Arsenal, under Unai Emery, he found plenty of minutes, winning the FA Cup and becoming an first team player.

However, his performances didn’t impress Arsenal fans, who widely view his time at the club as wasted, nor Spain’s coach Luis Enrique, who left him out of the Spanish Euros squad.

He did participate in the Tokyo Olympic Games in 2021, where he suffered a significant ankle injury, further hampering his progress.

Upon his return to Madrid, Ceballos struggled to gain a regular spot. Coach Carlo Ancelotti appreciated his unique talent, but continuous injuries hindered his ability to make a significant impact.

In the summer, he renewed his contract with Real Madrid until 2027, choosing to stay despite interest from Betis, Italy, and Emery at Aston Villa. He also reportedly turned down a free move to Bayern Munich.

Since then, nothing much has changed for him in Madrid. He has played just 150 minutes this season, with only 87 of those coming in La Liga and just six appearances in Madrid’s La Liga matchday squad.

Ceballos’ relationship with the national team has also been tumultuous. Left out of the World Cup in Qatar by Luis Enrique and not favoured by Luis de la Fuente, his chances of making the Euro squad next summer seem slim. Recent clashes with Gavi of Barcelona have not helped his cause.

Now, with injuries plaguing Madrid‘s midfield, Ceballos faces what could be his last significant opportunity to prove himself.

Ancelotti’s trust in him offers a glimmer of hope.

The upcoming match against Granada presents a crucial chance for Ceballos to demonstrate his worth and secure his place in a team where his talent has always promised much but delivered little.

Aston Villa still want Ceballos

Aston Villa are said to be intensifying their pursuit of Dani Ceballos, with the Premier League club reportedly preparing to make a substantial financial offer for the player.

The interest from Aston Villa is not new, but they are now taking significant steps to secure his transfer.

Unai Emery, the manager of Aston Villa, has personally reached out to Ceballos to discuss the crucial role he would play in the team.

For Ceballos, a move to Aston Villa would mean a return to the Premier League. Previously, he has stated he did not want to return to England.