Real Madrid Drop Ceballos After Reported Rift With Arbeloa

The tactical snub signals a likely summer exit for a player already on the transfer list.

Overview

Ceballos was omitted from the traveling squad for Real Madrid’s 1-1 draw at Real Betis on Friday for tactical, non-injury reasons, with academy players preferred.
Cadena SER reported a disagreement over his lack of minutes since a calf issue, while AS described the relationship with manager Álvaro Arbeloa as completely broken.
The midfielder has not started a La Liga match since November and his role has shrunk to late cameos or unused bench spots in recent weeks.
Multiple outlets say Madrid will accept a good offer in the summer, with interest reported from Ajax and former club Real Betis.
Arbeloa’s short tenure has featured other disputes, including with Raul Asencio and Dani Carvajal, in a season where Madrid are promoting youth and reshaping the wage bill.