With the new La Liga season just weeks away, Real Madrid’s preseason is a race against time. The team, under the guidance of manager Xabi Alonso, has a crucial period to prepare for its first league match against Osasuna on August 19. A key focus for Alonso is addressing a major void in the midfield.
Following the departures of veteran playmakers Toni Kroos and Luka Modrić, the club is without two of its most creative forces. Alonso is now tasked with finding a successor to lead the team’s creative engine from the back.
Defansa Central report that Alonso has narrowed his options to two players: Dani Ceballos and Arda Güler. The preseason will serve as a final proving ground for both players as Alonso makes his decision.
Despite recent transfer speculation, Ceballos remains with the club. A potential move back to Real Betis fell through due to financial constraints, leaving the Spanish midfielder to fight for a starting role.
Last season’s Club World Cup offered a glimpse into Alonso’s thinking, where Güler appeared to be the preferred choice. The young Turkish talent started matches and impressed with his playmaking, while Ceballos saw his playing time significantly reduced.
However, a subsequent match against PSG exposed a potential weakness for Güler. He struggled physically against the French club’s formidable midfield, raising questions about his readiness for such a demanding role. Güler has reportedly been working on his physical conditioning during the offseason, and Alonso plans to closely monitor his progress.
Ceballos, a more experienced option, has a proven track record of performing under pressure. Alonso will be looking to see if he can assert himself and seize the opportunity during the upcoming preseason matches. The decision between the two will be critical in shaping Real Madrid’s attack for the season ahead.