Real Madrid have suffered a setback with midfielder Dani Ceballos ruled out for up to two months after sustaining a left hamstring injury. The 28-year-old picked up the injury during the final moments of Los Blancos’ 1-0 victory over Real Sociedad in the Copa del Rey semi-final first leg.
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Ceballos’ Injury Incident
Ceballos went down in stoppage time after contesting possession with Takefusa Kubo. The collision left him in visible distress as he was forced off the field with Madrid unable to replace him, having already used all five of their substitutions. Medical personnel assisted him off the pitch, and early signs suggested a serious concern.
Despite the initial fears of a knee issue due to the nature of the contact, further scans revealed a hamstring problem in his left leg. Madrid confirmed in a club statement that Ceballos had been “diagnosed with an injury to the semimembranosus muscle with involvement of the tendon in his left leg.”
Key Matches Ceballos Will Miss
Ceballos’ absence comes at a crucial juncture for Madrid. He is set to miss both legs of the Champions League round of 16 tie against city rivals Atletico Madrid, along with several important La Liga fixtures. His injury adds to the growing concerns in Carlo Ancelotti’s squad, with Dani Carvajal and Eder Militao already sidelined with long-term ACL injuries.
The midfielder has been an essential presence in Ancelotti’s plans this season, featuring in 30 games across all competitions, including 16 starts. He has contributed two goals and five assists while offering a vital midfield balance, especially with Eduardo Camavinga dealing with fitness issues and Luka Modric managing his workload.
Ceballos’ Injury Woes Continue
This is not the first time the Spanish international has faced time on the sidelines. Earlier in the season, Ceballos missed seven matches due to a calf strain, and a prior ankle ligament injury in September hampered his momentum. Despite these setbacks, he had recently cemented his role in Madrid’s midfield, filling the void left by the now-retired Toni Kroos.
His influence has been felt across both defensive and attacking transitions. According to Fbref.com, only three Madrid players have recorded more than his 111 progressive passes in La Liga this season, while only Lucas Vazquez and Jude Bellingham have completed more tackles than his 34. His absence will undoubtedly be a blow to Madrid’s midfield structure.
Ceballos’ Madrid Career and Achievements
Ceballos arrived at Real Madrid in 2017 from Real Betis and has since made 178 appearances for the club. He has enjoyed notable success, winning La Liga in 2022 and 2024, along with Champions League triumphs in 2018, 2022, and 2024.
During his time at Madrid, he also spent two seasons on loan at Arsenal, where he played 77 games and helped the Gunners secure the FA Cup in 2020. Upon returning to Spain, he gradually re-established himself in the squad, particularly under Ancelotti.
Madrid’s Midfield Options Without Ceballos
With Ceballos sidelined, Ancelotti will have to rethink his midfield setup. Aurelien Tchouameni and Federico Valverde have already been shifting between midfield and defense due to injuries in the backline. Camavinga’s fitness and Modric’s workload will now come under further scrutiny as Madrid aim to maintain their dominance in La Liga and Europe.
Ceballos’ absence could also mean increased opportunities for younger talents or a tactical reshuffle to manage the demanding fixture schedule. Given his recent form, his return will be eagerly anticipated by Madridistas.
For Ceballos, this injury is a bitter setback at a time when he appeared to be in his best shape since joining Madrid. With two months of recovery ahead, the Spaniard will now focus on rehabilitation in the hopes of returning in time for the crucial phase of the season.
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FAQs
How long will Dani Ceballos be out due to injury?
Dani Ceballos is expected to be sidelined for up to two months after suffering a left hamstring injury.
When did Ceballos sustain his injury?
He picked up the injury during stoppage time of Real Madrid’s 1-0 win over Real Sociedad in the Copa del Rey semi-final first leg.
Which matches will Ceballos miss?
He is set to miss several La Liga fixtures and both legs of Real Madrid’s Champions League round of 16 clash against Atletico Madrid.
How has Ceballos performed this season?
He has made 30 appearances across all competitions, starting 16 games, scoring twice, and providing five assists.
What other injuries are affecting Real Madrid?
Ceballos joins Dani Carvajal and Eder Militao on the sidelines, both of whom are recovering from long-term ACL injuries.
