Ceballos set for Arsenal exit after key gripe leads to divide with Arteta

Arsenal midfielder Dani Ceballos is keen to cut short his loan spell from Real Madrid after becoming frustrated with Gunners boss Mikel Arteta, according to reports.

Ceballos moved to the Emirates from the Spanish giants in the summer on a season-long deal and showed glimpses of his talent under former Arsenal manager Unai Emery.

However, the 23-year-old suffered a hamstring injury in November and only made his return to action in Monday’s FA Cup win over Bournemouth.

Arteta insisted when asked about Ceballos’ future that the midfielder must “fight for his place like any other player“, adding that it is too early to say whether he has a role in the team.

According to The Athletic, however, Ceballos belives that Arteta has been unclear with his instructions as to how he should go about getting his name on the team sheet.

In addition, the Spain international reportedly disagrees with his compatriot’s claim about getting back to full fitness, with the player believing he is up to speed and ready to re-enter the fray.

It is claimed that Ceballos is fearful that a lack of game time could hamper his chances of making Spain’s Euro 2020 squad.

Arteta added about Ceballos: “I had a conversation with Dani. When I joined the club he wasn’t here. He was in Madrid because he was doing his rehab for over a month with the team that owns him.

“When I came here he was doing his rehab in the first two or three weeks, getting back to fitness and I haven’t seen much of him because he only trained with us for a week or 10 days.”

Ceballos has made 18 appearances in all competitions since his move from the Spanish capital, scoring one goal and assisting two others.

In other Arsenal news, the Gunners have reportedly agreed a deal to bring Flamengo centre-back Pablo Mari to the Emirates.

Arteta has been looking to bolster his defence since his return to North London and various names have been linked.

According to journalist David Ornstein, Arteta has got his man, with Mari set to join on loan with an option to buy at the end of the season.

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