Arsenal secure 2nd loan for Real Madrid's Ceballos

Arsenal and Real Madrid finalized a second successive loan spell for Dani Ceballos in the English capital on Friday.

Ceballos had a successful loan at Arsenal after moving to north London in June 2019. The Spanish international was often the sole source of creativity in a midfield that was short on attacking purpose following Mesut Ozil's banishment from the squad.

The Real Betis academy product was particularly impressive during the second half of the season following Mikel Arteta's appointment in December. Ceballos featured 24 times in the league and played a vital role in the club's record 14th FA Cup triumph over rivals Chelsea.

Arteta and countryman Ceballos have a strong relationship, which reportedly assisted in getting the deal over the line, according to ESPN UK's Rodrigo Faez and Alex Kirkland.

"Dani was an integral part of our team last season and finished the season in excellent form," Arteta said Friday. "I love Dani’s passion and commitment, and he’s a highly skillful player. We’re all delighted to welcome him back, and we look forward to seeing him pick up where he left off."

Ceballos returned to Spain following the end of Arsenal's domestic campaign, missing out on the Community Shield victory against Liverpool to participate in Zinedine Zidane's preseason preparations.