Real Madrid News
Real Madrid midfielder rules out summer departure, turns down offers – report
Last season, Dani Ceballos experienced a challenging period at Real Madrid, finding himself predominantly on the fringes of the first team.
The Spanish midfielder’s appearances were sporadic, and when he did feature, it was usually as a late substitute or in less crucial matches.
So much so that the 27-year-old has been heavily linked with a departure this summer with there being interest from clubs like Real Betis and Atletico Madrid.
But with the retirement of Toni Kroos and the reduced role of Luka Modric, there is a considerable void to be filled in Real Madrid’s midfield.
Ceballos looking to turn over a new leaf
Now, according to MARCA, Ceballos has spent the summer analyzing his future and has nothing else on his mind other than succeeding at Real Madrid.
In fact, the 27-year-old has also turned down several offers to realize his dream of thriving in the Spanish capital.
Aware of the heightened opportunity to feature in midfield following the revamped dynamics, Ceballos put in tremendous effort during the summer. He pushed his body to the limit with high-altitude training in Sierra Nevada, working at an intense pace.
“A different week with training in the mountains. Ready for what’s coming,” he confessed on his Instagram account.
The 27-year-old signed a new deal till 2027 just last year and aims to honor the length of his contract.
Dani Ceballos is determined to make a significant impact, and he understands that arriving in peak condition is crucial. After two weeks of intensive training at Real Madrid City leading up to the U.S. tour, the results of his physical preparation are evident.
With the Merengues taking on AC Milan, FC Barcelona and Chelsea in the pre-season, Ceballos will have the ideal opportunity to prove his worth to coach Carlo Ancelotti.
Real Madrid News
Carlos Espi reacts after scoring match-winning goal in Elche 2-3 Real Madrid: ‘Starting like this is a dream’
Carlos Espi is becoming Real Madrid’s unlikely late-game specialist.
The 21-year-old once again came off the bench to rescue Jose Mourinho’s side, this time scoring the 91st-minute winner in a dramatic 3-2 victory over Elche.
It was his second goal for the club, and both have arrived at crucial moments.
Speaking to Real Madrid TV after the match, Espi could barely contain his excitement.
“I’m so happy—the happiest man in the world. I try to help the team any way I can, and every time I step onto the field, I give it my all and come away feeling great.
“Starting like this has been a dream. This isn’t over yet; we’re going to keep going because we have Sunday’s match coming up.
Carlos Espi winning goal in Elche vs Real Madrid game. Mbappe assist. pic.twitter.com/STJBV3ikQL
— Daily Foot Vibes (@dailyfootvibes) September 16, 2026
“This is a team effort. All of us who take the field make the most of our opportunities and give it our all,” he began.
Espi keeps making his minutes count
There is a growing pattern to Espi’s involvement. Even though he has yet to start a match for the first team, that has not stopped him from making an impact.
His first goal arrived against Espanyol in Real Madrid’s opening game, when another late strike helped secure the result.
Against Elche, he was required again after Real Madrid surrendered a two-goal lead and suddenly found themselves in serious trouble.
Espi eventually appeared at the back post in the 91st minute and finished the move to give Mourinho’s team all three points.
The youngster shared the credit with his teammates, but he also had special praise for the player who supplied his decisive moment.
That assist came from Kylian Mbappe, whose presence has made Espi’s route into the starting XI particularly difficult.
“It’s unbelievable—it’s crazy to watch him train and play. In this case, he set me up for the goal, and I’m very happy for him, too.”
First Madrid derby already has Espi excited
The timing of Espi’s latest contribution could hardly be more interesting, as Real Madrid now face Atletico Madrid on Sunday, giving the forward an opportunity to experience his first Madrid derby.
“I’m really looking forward to it—I’m so excited. It’s my first derby here, and we’re going to go for it.”
For Mourinho, Espi is a useful option when matches become chaotic. He may not yet be a regular starter, but his two appearances on the scoresheet have carried considerably more weight than the minutes he has played.
