Arsenal midfielder Dani Ceballos, who is playing on loan from Real Madrid, has hinted that he is unlikely to extend his stay at North London (via The Metro). After the Gunners’ 1-1 draw against Chelsea on Tuesday night, Ceballos posted a reply on Hector Bellerin’s Instagram post which read (via The Metro), ‘I’ll miss those goals with the left foot bro!
‘You deserve all the good that happens to you.’
Ceballos’ Underwhelming Loan Spell In England
The Spanish midfielder has endured a frustrating loan spell at the Emirates Stadium thus far as a muscle injury has derailed his progress in English football. He has only managed to score one goal and create two assists in 17 appearances for the North London outfit this term across all competitions.
The 23-year-old has averaged 1.7 tackles, 0.8 shots, 1.0 key passes and 1.3 dribbles per game in the English top-flight (stats via whoscored). There is no denying that Ceballos needs to get a regular run of games under his belt if he wants to reach his true potential in the coming years. He is not a guaranteed starter in Mikel Arteta’s first-team, so it won’t be a surprise if he decides to opt against extending his stay at the Emirates next summer.
The Utrera-born talent has also secured nine senior caps for the Spanish national team and has registered one goal for his nation in the process.
What Does The Spanish Midfield Ace Bring To The Table?
Ceballos is quick and agile enough to make some excellent breakaway runs from midfield. He boasts outstanding ball control and can link up play well with others around him. The Spanish playmaker can also pick out a killer pass in the final third but can be a liability off the ball as he has a low defensive work rate.
Should The Gunners Make Ceballos’ Loan Move Permanent Next Summer?
Arteta will need to rely on every one of his squad players if he wants his side to have a successful second half of this campaign. Hence, it makes sense for the Gunners boss to keep Ceballos in North London for the time being. Unless the Spaniard can turn his fortunes for the better by putting in some memorable performances in the remainder of this campaign, Arsenal should consider letting him return to Madrid next summer.
Arteta will be better off bringing in a quality playmaker at the end of the season rather than put his faith on Ceballos, who has been average at best in English football so far.
