Midfielder Dani Ceballos has confirmed that he will leave Real Madrid after a seven-year spell with the Spanish giants.

The 29-year-old joined Madrid from Real Betis in 2017 and went on to make 215 appearances for the club, collecting 16 trophies along the way, including three Champions League titles. He also spent two seasons on loan at Arsenal between 2019 and 2021.

Ceballos admitted that the decision was not an easy one, explaining that his time at the club had reached its natural conclusion.

“It has not been an easy decision,” Ceballos wrote in a statement on X.

“It has not been an easy year either, and perhaps that is exactly why I feel the time has come to close this chapter and take on a new challenge with the same excitement I had when I first arrived.”

The midfielder now prepares to begin the next stage of his career after a successful journey at one of football’s biggest clubs.

Real Madrid also confirmed Ceballos’ departure with an official statement, praising the midfielder for his dedication and contribution during his time at the club.

“Real Madrid would like to thank Dani Ceballos for his commitment and professionalism while wearing our shirt. We wish him and his family every success in this new chapter of their lives. Real Madrid will always be his home.”

Ceballos found regular playing time difficult to secure during his final season in Madrid, with injuries affecting his campaign. He made 23 appearances across all competitions, starting just four LaLiga matches.