
Dani Ceballos
Available vs. Lille
Ceballos (not injury related) is an option for Tuesday's Champions League match against Lille, according to manager Manuel Pellegrini. "He's in the list, so that's important. It's not easy to get minutes in the squad, but he's moving in the right direction."
Analysis: Ceballos is likely to see minutes off the bench if he plays at all in the UCL opener on Tuesday. The veteran midfielder will have his work cut out for the time being when it comes to starting, as he joined the team shortly before the transfer deadline. He'll compete with the likes of Pablo Fornals, Nelson Deossa, Facundo Bernal and Marc Roca for playing time.
Won't be an option vs Real Madrid
Ceballos (fitness) won't be an option for Friday's clash against Real Madrid, as he needs to train with the team several times first, according to coach Manuel Pellegrini. "No Ceballos won't be in the squad list.
Analysis: Ceballos rejoined Real Betis this summer on a deal through 2029 after leaving Real Madrid, bringing top level experience and several domestic and European titles from his time at both Madrid and Arsenal. His integration is still in its early stages, and coach Manuel Pellegrini's comments suggest a patient approach before he is fully worked into the rotation alongside options like Isco, Pablo Fornals and Nelson Deossa.
Heads to Real Betis
Ceballos will rejoin Real Betis for the 2026/27 season, signing a contract until 2029 after leaving Real Madrid.
Analysis: Ceballos is back with the team that saw him take the first steps of his professional career, returning with top-level experience and several domestic and European titles from stints at Arsenal and Real Madrid. While he wasn't too active in the final stretch of his time as a Merengue player, the 30-year-old still has plenty of quality in his right foot, and his presence should improve an already strong midfield, where he may share playing time with Isco, Pablo Fornals and Nelson Deossa.
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