Good news for Real Madrid: a key player is back

Sure! Here’s a **paraphrased version** of the article with **quoted phrases left unchanged**, as requested:

—

**Sport**

**Good news for Real Madrid: a key player is back**

**Published 18 hours ago on April 10, 2025**

**By ENOCH**

The mood around Real Madrid has been understandably low in recent days after their disheartening **”3-0 defeat at the hands of Arsenal”** in the opening leg of the **”UEFA Champions League quarter-finals.”** The tough result in London served as a clear wake-up call about the expectations at **”Santiago Bernabéu”** and sparked a phase of deep introspection and meticulous preparation as the team gets ready for the decisive second leg.

As discussions continued about the issues at the **”Emirates Stadium”** and strategies were developed for the uphill battle of making up the **”three-goal deficit,”** the squad regrouped at their **”Valdebebas”** training base. Their attention was split between the imminent **La Liga** clash with **Alavés** on Sunday and the far more pressing second leg against **Arsenal** next Wednesday — a tie that has taken on massive significance for their European ambitions.

During Thursday’s practice, concerns about injuries remained a key issue for the squad. Several essential players were still sidelined with physical setbacks. Among those absent were **”Andriy Lunin,” “Éder Militão,” “Dani Carvajal,”** and **”Ferland Mendy,”** none of whom joined the group training activities.

Although **”Andriy Lunin”** and **”Ferland Mendy”** are said to be progressing in their recoveries, it’s widely expected that they won’t be fit in time for the pivotal home clash against **Arsenal.** Their continued absence could pose challenges for **Carlo Ancelotti** as he aims to build the best lineup possible for a comeback attempt.

Still, amidst all the injury worries, there was a welcome development at **Thursday’s training session.** The return of Spanish midfielder **”Dani Ceballos”** to full training brought a noticeable lift to the team and offered some much-needed optimism ahead of upcoming tests.

**”Dani Ceballos”** had been out for over two months due to injury. His absence had left a gap in the team, as he is known for his technical skills, creativity, and energy in the middle of the park. Following a lengthy and determined recovery, he was finally back training with his teammates, completing the entire session.

Having missed the last 13 official matches, **”Dani Ceballos’”** participation in team training marks a key milestone in his comeback. He has now reached the final stages of his recovery and is close to being ready for competitive action once again for the defending Spanish and European champions.

His return comes at a perfect time for Madrid. With **”Eduardo Camavinga”** suspended for the second leg against **”Arsenal”** after accumulating yellow cards, Ancelotti has a difficult decision to make in midfield. **”Ceballos”** could be a timely alternative and potentially step into Camavinga’s role.

If he continues to make progress without setbacks, **”Ceballos”** might even feature this weekend in the league game against **Alavés.** A strong showing there would not only help him regain match rhythm but could also increase his chances of starting in next Wednesday’s crucial Champions League tie.

Known for combining skill with experience, **”Dani Ceballos”** can control the pace of play, deliver sharp passes, and work hard in both attack and defense — making him a valuable resource for **Ancelotti.** His return could reinvigorate Madrid’s midfield, particularly with **”Camavinga”** out.

The possibility of **”Ceballos”** playing again is undoubtedly a positive for the club. Beyond his skills, his presence alone might lift the morale of the squad, especially in the wake of the **”disappointing defeat against Arsenal.”**

**”Dani Ceballos’”** road to recovery has highlighted his resilience and commitment. Overcoming such a setback takes not only physical rehab but mental strength as well. His full return to training is a testament to that effort, and his teammates are sure to welcome him back warmly.

Depth has been a key to Madrid’s recent successes. Having top-quality players ready to step in when others are injured or suspended is what sets elite teams apart. **”Ceballos’”** return further showcases this depth and provides more tactical options for **Ancelotti** during this critical stage.

The next week will be a major test. The La Liga fixture against **Alavés** offers a chance to stay on top domestically, while the showdown with **Arsenal** will require an extraordinary effort to reverse the deficit and continue their European journey. The timing of **”Dani Ceballos’”** return brings Real Madrid a vital lift as they prepare for these challenges. His comeback not only strengthens the squad but brings renewed hope to the fans. The sight of him training again has surely brought some smiles back to **Real Madrid** supporters.

—

Let me know if you want this version shortened or formatted differently!