Real Madrid have been dealt an early setback in their pre-season preparations as they have confirmed that Dani Ceballos picked up an injury in training.
The 26-year-old was in just his third day of training as most of the squad returned to prepare for pre-season, but has picked up an injury to the distal tendon of the right femoral biceps muscle.
The club have confirmed his injury, and have stated that he faces tests to determine how long he could be out for.
This will come as a big blow to both player and club if he has a long-term injury, with the Spain international choosing to sign a new contract and extend his stay at the club despite the incredible competition he faces for a starting spot in the Real Madrid XI.
What role could Ceballos play this season?
Carlo Ancelotti will be hoping that the midfielder’s injury does not keep him out for the long-term, as his decision to stay confirmed that he is in the club’s plans for this upcoming season.
Despite the arrivals of Jude Bellingham and Arda Guler, as well as the extensions of Toni Kroos and Luka Modric, Ceballos could still have an important rotational role in the squad.
With both Kroos and Modric set to take a reduced role next season, Ceballos could have formed a midfield trio with Bellingham and one of Eduardo Camavinga or Aurielen Tchouameni in games when there is heavy fixture congestion and Ancelotti needs to rotate his pack.
Having someone with the quality and experience of Ceballos available as a backup is a testament to Real Madrid’s amazing depth in the middle of the park, and despite him not typically being a starter, there will be frustration if he is set for a period of absence.