Dani Ceballos in close-up on a black and white birthday cake

Dani Ceballos does it again, the fans explode: 'It's not the first time'

The Andalusian midfielder has reopened the debate about his future

Dani Ceballos has become one of the main protagonists of the summer at Real Madrid. As has happened during recent breaks, his name has been the subject of rumors and speculation about his future.

After his limited participation in the Club World Cup, many thought that his departure from the club was a matter of days.

The lack of playing time in the final stage of the tournament increased doubts about his permanence.

When Dani Ceballos arrived in Seville to spend a few days on vacation, his words fueled the rumors even more. "Betis was my home and it always will be, I hope the door is always open," said the Andalusian midfielder.

These statements did not sit well at all among Real Madrid fans, who began to think that he was leaving Bernabéu.

Xabi Alonso and Ceballos meet to clarify the future

However, what seemed like an imminent departure has taken an unexpected turn. We now know that Xabi Alonso met with Ceballos to let him know that he counts on him and that he will not accept his departure. The coach's intention is to give him a relevant role during the season.

Short-haired, bearded man looking to the side with white and purple soccer team flags in the background
Xabi Alonso and the white fans want Dani Ceballos | Europa Press, E-Noticies

Ceballos, despite the rumors, has a place in the team and is expected to be a key piece in the rotation.

However, what seemed to be a quiet end to the speculation about his future has taken a step back. All of this is due to a new incident.

A photo wearing Betis's jersey reopens speculation

On the occasion of his birthday, Dani Ceballos posted an image on his social media where he is seen wearing the Real Betis Balompié jersey, his former club. The photo, which at first might seem harmless, has caused great controversy.

In this regard, the post was not well received at Real Madrid, as they believe this is not the first time it has happened.

Rumors about his departure have been reignited and the photo wearing the green-and-white jersey has made fans wonder again if Dani Ceballos could leave the club.

Despite this gesture, it seems that neither Betis is willing to go ahead with his signing nor does Xabi Alonso want to let him go. The situation remains uncertain, but Ceballos's and Madrid's intentions seem to be going in opposite directions.

Ceballos's future still hanging in the air

Although the rumors had dissipated, the photo of Dani Ceballos has reopened the debate about his future.

Despite the statements and gestures of affection toward his former club, the Andalusian midfielder seems likely to stay at Real Madrid. 

A Real Madrid player controls the ball as a player from the opposing team approaches during a football match.
Dani Ceballos seems likely to stay at Real Madrid | Europa Press

In this regard, the coming weeks will be key to knowing whether Ceballos will continue his career in Madrid or if the interest of other clubs will lead him to take a new direction.