Florentino Perez’s Obligation to Current Madrid Team Toni Kroos

Real Madrid president Florentino Perez has a lot on his plate as he navigates the challenges of leading one of the most prestigious football clubs in the world. Recently reappointed at the helm until 2029, Perez will have to manage a host of crucial decisions that will shape the club’s future. Among those decisions is the future of Dani Ceballos, a player who has recently stepped into a pivotal role within the squad. With the departure of Toni Kroos, Ceballos has risen to become Carlo Ancelotti’s new midfield anchor, and his remarkable performances this season have made it impossible to ignore his growing influence.

The Void Left by Toni Kroos

Since Toni Kroos’ departure, Real Madrid’s midfield has struggled to find a suitable replacement for the German maestro. For years, Kroos was the engine driving the Madrid midfield, dictating play with his impeccable passing range and football intelligence. His departure left a noticeable gap, and for a time, Real Madrid seemed uncertain as to who could step into his shoes. It wasn’t until recently that Dani Ceballos, who had been somewhat of a fringe player in the squad, was given the chance to shine.

After weeks of speculation and uncertainty, Carlo Ancelotti finally handed Ceballos a consistent starting role in the team. It didn’t take long for the 28-year-old to prove that he was more than capable of filling the void left by Kroos. His style of play, which is strikingly similar to that of Kroos, allowed him to seamlessly integrate into Ancelotti’s midfield, offering the same creativity and passing range that the German international had once provided.

Ceballos’ Rise to Prominence

Ceballos’ transition from a peripheral figure to one of Real Madrid’s most important players has been nothing short of remarkable. The midfielder has displayed a level of maturity and consistency that has been crucial to the team’s success this season. Having struggled with injuries in the past, Ceballos is now fully fit and ready to lead Madrid’s midfield. His understanding of the game has improved, and he now exudes a confidence that was lacking in his earlier years at the club.

Over the past few weeks, Ceballos has made his presence felt on the pitch, particularly in crucial La Liga matches. In Real Madrid’s 3-0 victory over Valladolid, which was highlighted by Kylian Mbappé’s stunning hat-trick, Ceballos was a key figure in the midfield. His passing range was exceptional, as he created multiple chances for his teammates, delivered precise crosses into the box, and controlled the tempo of the game. Notably, he made the most passes in the final third and recovered the second-most number of balls, showcasing his all-around influence in the match.

Statistical Superiority Over Kroos

Ceballos’ performances this season have also been backed up by impressive statistics. He has played 22 games so far, including four consecutive starts, and has racked up 1,044 minutes on the pitch. According to recent comparisons between Ceballos and his predecessor Kroos, the Spanish midfielder has actually outperformed Kroos in several key areas, particularly defensively. While Kroos was known for his precision in passing and vision, Ceballos has demonstrated a stronger ability to disrupt the opposition’s play.

Ceballos averages 3.84 tackles and 1.37 interceptions per game, compared to Kroos’ 2.25 tackles and 0.72 interceptions. This defensive solidity has allowed Ceballos to become a vital player in Real Madrid’s midfield, adding a layer of security that was sometimes lacking when Kroos was present. His ability to recover possession and break up attacks has given Madrid the balance they need in the middle of the park.

A Player Who Was Almost Gone

It is remarkable to think that just a few months ago, Dani Ceballos was on the brink of leaving Real Madrid. During the summer transfer window, there was speculation about his future, with many believing that his time at the club was coming to an end. However, a change in fortunes has seen Ceballos emerge as a vital cog in Ancelotti’s team. His performances have not only silenced critics but have also made him an indispensable part of the squad.

Ceballos’ rise has even led to a shift in the team’s hierarchy. Once considered a backup option behind the likes of Luka Modric, Ceballos has now moved ahead of the Croatian veteran in Ancelotti’s pecking order. Modric, who has been a key figure at the club for years, has found himself pushed to the bench in favor of the younger, more dynamic Ceballos. This is a testament to the midfielder’s hard work and development, and it highlights how far he has come since joining the club in 2017.

Florentino Perez’s Responsibility

As one of Real Madrid’s most influential players this season, Dani Ceballos now finds himself in a position where his future at the club is of paramount importance. With a contract running until 2027, Ceballos is expected to be rewarded for his contributions to the team. His performances this season have been nothing short of exceptional, and it is clear that he has earned a spot in the starting XI week in and week out.

Florentino Perez, who has been re-elected as president of Real Madrid until 2029, must now make the decision to reward Ceballos for his efforts. The midfielder has proven that he is worthy of a new contract, and it’s likely that Perez will offer him a salary increase in recognition of his outstanding form. Currently earning €10 million per year, Ceballos is expected to receive a raise that brings him in line with some of the club’s rising stars, such as Aurélien Tchouaméni and Eduardo Camavinga, who both earn €12.5 million annually.

The Need for Long-Term Stability

Ceballos’ value to the team goes beyond his performances on the pitch. At 28, he is one of the more experienced players in a squad that is filled with young talent. As Luka Modric edges closer to retirement, Ceballos is expected to play a key mentoring role for the next generation of Real Madrid midfielders. His experience, combined with his newfound leadership qualities, makes him an ideal figure to guide the club’s young stars as they look to establish themselves in the starting lineup.

Given Ceballos’ age and experience, it is vital for Perez to ensure that he remains at the club for the long term. With his role in the team continuing to evolve, Ceballos has the potential to become one of the cornerstones of Madrid’s future. A new contract, along with a salary increase, would solidify his place as one of the club’s most important players.

The Madrid Midfield of the Future

Looking ahead, Ceballos’ role in the team will only continue to grow. As one of the most consistent and reliable players in the squad, he is poised to lead Real Madrid’s midfield for years to come. His ability to control games, break up opposition attacks, and contribute offensively will be crucial as Madrid looks to maintain its status as one of the best clubs in Europe.

Florentino Perez has a clear obligation to secure Ceballos’ future at the club, and it seems inevitable that he will do so. Ceballos has earned the right to be recognized as one of Real Madrid’s key players, and with his performances, he is showing that he can follow in the footsteps of his former idol, Toni Kroos. The future is bright for Dani Ceballos at Real Madrid, and Perez must ensure that he remains a vital part of the squad for the years to come.

Conclusion

Dani Ceballos’ rise to prominence at Real Madrid has been one of the most impressive stories of the season. From being on the verge of leaving the club to becoming an essential figure in the midfield, Ceballos has shown that he has the talent and determination to succeed at the highest level. Now, with his future secure at the club, Florentino Perez must ensure that he continues to be a central part of the team as Real Madrid looks to build for the future. Ceballos is not just the new Toni Kroos; he is a player who has the potential to become one of Madrid’s midfield legends in his own right.