Real Madrid have received a timely injury boost ahead of their Champions League quarter-final second leg against Arsenal, with Carlo Ancelotti confirming that Dani Ceballos is fully fit and ready to make his return.
The 28-year-old midfielder, who had been enjoying a strong run of form before sustaining an injury in February, is set to feature against Alaves on Sunday. Ceballos has missed the last 10 matches after picking up an injury in the aftermath of Real’s 1-0 win over Real Sociedad on February 26.
Having previously struggled to nail down a regular starting spot since arriving from Real Betis eight years ago, Ceballos had recently become a dependable figure in Ancelotti’s midfield. The Spain international – who spent two seasons on loan at Arsenal early in Mikel Arteta’s reign – was ruled out of last week’s first leg at the Emirates, but is expected to be in contention for the return leg at the Santiago Bernabéu, provided he comes through Sunday’s match unscathed.
Real Madrid trail 3-0 in the tie after a dominant display from Arsenal in London, but the Spanish giants are hopeful of another memorable comeback on home soil. Speaking ahead of the Alaves match, Ancelotti admitted his frustration at La Liga’s refusal to reschedule the fixture.
“We don’t understand it, but it is what it is,” said Ancelotti. “There are more than 72 hours of rest, so we can’t complain.”
Despite the uphill task, the Real boss insisted his side won’t go down without a fight. “We’re going to try again – until the last minute and the last ball. That starts tomorrow. Every defeat is difficult, but football, luckily, gives you another chance right away.”
Meanwhile, Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta faces fresh injury concerns of his own ahead of the crucial second leg. Midfield duo Thomas Partey and Jorginho were both forced off during Saturday’s 1-1 draw against Brentford, while defender Ben White remains a doubt for the trip to Spain.
Goal.com
