Dani Ceballos explains why he rejected Real Madrid’s offer to return to Arsenal



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Dani Ceballos watches during Arsenal's FA Cup win over Chelsea

Real Madrid have loaned Dani Ceballos to Arsenal for the second consecutive season (Image: Getty)

Dani Ceballos says he ‘never had any doubts’ in his mind about wanting to return to Arsenal, despite offers from Real Madrid and other La Liga teams to stay in Spain for the next season.

The 24-year-old midfielder impressed after being loaned out by Madrid to Arsenal last season and made no secret of his desire to return to North London before the 2020/21 campaign.

Zinedine Zidane kept Ceballos looking forward to his future before sanctioning a second consecutive temporary transfer to the Emirates this week and the Spanish international is clearly delighted to be with the Gunners again.

Dani Ceballos speaks on the official Arsenal website after extending his stay

The Spaniard was adamant about wanting to return this summer (Image: Arsenal)

‘I am very happy to be back with Arsenal where I had such a good time last season, ‘Ceballos told the club’s official website after the confirmation of his second loan assignment on Friday night.

“I am very happy to have returned to a club where I feel important.”

Ceballos celebrates with the FA Cup after Arsenal's win over Chelsea

Ceballos turned down offers in Spain to return to North London (Image: Getty)

Ceballos had several alternative options at home in Spain, but insists that returning to Arsenal was always his favorite move this summer.

‘It is true that I had other options, such as staying in Real Madrid and return to the Spanish league, where there were teams interested in me, ‘he added.

“I spoke to the manager last year, before the FA Cup final, and I told him that I wanted to stay at Arsenal and win titles. I was very happy with what Mikel [Arteta] I had built in the club since I entered.

“I had a great time at this club last season and I never had any doubt that I wanted to come back.”

Ceballos talks with Arteta during Arsenal's clash with Everton

Ceballos enjoyed working with Arteta last quarter (Image: Getty)

Ceballos became a fan favorite with his performances in the Arsenal colors, particularly towards the end of last season, and he admits that the love and appreciation he received from fans played a part in his decision.

“I think everyone will have seen last season that since I joined I bought the club completely and I always gave 100 percent both on and off the field,” continued Ceballos.

‘The fans paid for it by showing me a lot of love … when I was at home they would send me messages asking me to come back and saying they needed me here.

“I think they will be as happy as I am that I am back and I am sure we have a great year ahead of us this season. When the coach, the club, the players and everyone asks you to stay one more year, you realize that they see you as a good teammate and a good player.

“I am proud that the club, the coach and, most importantly, the fans wanted me to stay, I did not hesitate for a second.”

Arteta says he is ‘delighted’ to have Ceballos on board again as the Gunners prepare for their first Premier League clash in Fulham on September 12.

“Dani was an integral part of our team last season and finished the season in excellent shape,” said the Arsenal manager.

“I love Dani’s passion and commitment and he is a very skilled player.

“We are all delighted to welcome him back and look forward to seeing him pick up where he left off.”

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