Marseille’s Offer and Ceballos’ Farewell Hint

Olympique Marseille, led by Roberto De Zerbi, has submitted an offer of €10–12 million to Real Madrid and a salary of nearly €7 million per year for Dani Ceballos. The biggest hint of his departure came after the match against Oviedo, when the player posted “last dance” on social media, interpreted by many as a farewell message.

The potential move would further reduce Real Madrid’s midfield options, especially following the exit of Luka Modric and injuries to Jude Bellingham and Eduardo Camavinga. Even so, coach Xabi Alonso has shown trust in the academy, giving opportunities to Thiago Pitarch, one of the brightest young prospects from La Fábrica, during the opening fixtures of the season.

A Mixed Spell at Real Madrid

Since joining in 2017, Ceballos’ time at Real Madrid has been marked by ups and downs. Limited minutes in his first two seasons pushed him to a loan spell at Arsenal, where he featured in 77 matches and rediscovered his form. Upon returning, and especially under Carlo Ancelotti, he managed to earn more playing time, though injuries and competition once again limited his role.

His dream move back to Real Betis seems unlikely, with the club unwilling to match Madrid’s asking price, leaving Olympique Marseille as the most realistic destination.

Marseille’s Ambitious Project

If the deal goes through, Ceballos will join a Marseille squad determined to challenge PSG’s dominance. The French club already boasts big names like Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, Mason Greenwood, Gerónimo Rulli, and Geoffrey Kondogbia, all of whom are key to their plans in Ligue 1 and Europe.

At 29, the Spanish midfielder is seeking the consistency he has lacked in Real Madrid, with hopes of regaining a spot in Spain’s national team ahead of the 2026 World Cup.