Real Madrid could be without one of their midfield options heading into El Clásico next weekend, as Dani Ceballos remains sidelined with a muscle injury.
The 28-year-old has not trained with the team since
October 8, nearly ten days ago, after suffering a problem in his left hamstring. While Ceballos hasn’t been a regular starter under Xabi Alonso this season, his absence still limits Madrid’s midfield depth—particularly given his unique ability to dictate tempo and link play between the lines.
Ceballos was one of the first-team players who did not travel for international duty during the break. Instead, he featured in a behind-closed-doors practice match between Real Madrid’s senior squad and Castilla. It was during or shortly after that session that he picked up the injury.
On Friday, while the rest of the team trained outside at Valdebebas, Ceballos worked alone in the gym as he continued his recovery process. He’s officially ruled out of Sunday’s La Liga match away to Getafe and is also a serious doubt for Tuesday’s friendly against Juventus at the Santiago Bernabéu.
There remains cautious optimism within the club that Ceballos could recover in time for El Clásico against Barcelona on October 26. However, his fitness will be monitored closely in the coming days, and the coaching staff will avoid taking unnecessary risks with his return.
