Arsenal have completed the re-signing of Dani Ceballos on loan from Real Madrid for the 2020/21 season.
The La Liga side are keen to see how Ceballos continues to develop in the Premier League and still believe he has a future at the club.
Dani Ceballos Returns to Arsenal on Loan
🗞 Dani Ceballos has rejoined us for a second successive season-long loan from Real Madrid!
— Arsenal (@Arsenal) September 4, 2020
A Key Figure for the Gunners
The 24-year-old really impressed during Project Restart after an unconvincing beginning to the season. After Mikel Arteta took over as Gunners boss and shifted to a back three, a midfield pivot of Ceballos and Granit Xhaka was influential in Arsenal’s upturn in form and their eventual FA Cup triumph. His energy and creative spark helped create a balance in midfield for Arteta, and there is no surprise he wanted him back.
There were fears at the beginning of the window that a deal could be off, especially after Ceballos was called to pre-season with the Madrid side.
However, Arteta and Arsenal were extremely keen to keep him. They now have their man for at least the upcoming season. Ceballos wanted to return to London, and all parties seem to be pleased with the outcome of this deal.
The Spaniard is attracted to the project Arteta appears to be building in North London. Also he sees this move as an opportunity to continue playing regular football with one eye on the European Championship next Summer. It appeared that Madrid boss Zidane did not have him in his plans for the upcoming season. This only heightened his eagerness to return to North London.
This loan move suits the restricted finances at Arsenal whilst also significantly boosting Arteta’s midfield options for this campaign.
Interest From Across Europe
Ceballos’ end of season form attracted interest from around Europe. The Spaniard turned down three loan bids from Italy and Spain to return to Arsenal. Conversations with Arteta and the strong relationship he formed with the squad made it an easy decision for him.
Dani Ceballos appeared to be adored by the Arsenal fans from an early stage. This love only grew as he started to perform more consistently in the latter stages of the campaign.
Although this may not be the big money move the fans are hoping for, Arsenal fans will be very pleased to have got this move over the line. Especially when it appeared earlier on in the window that it could well be off.
What Was Said?
Mikel Arteta, upon welcoming Ceballos back to north London, stated via the club website: “Dani was an integral part of our team last season and finished the season in excellent form. I love Dani’s passion and commitment and he’s a highly skilful player. We’re all delighted to welcome him back and we look forward to seeing him pick up where he left off.”
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