Ancelotti already preparing for future matches with injured star in the mix

According to a report from MARCA, Dani Ceballos is on track to make a timely return from injury, and the recovery has been nothing short of exceptional.

The midfielder, who was once ruled out for an extended period, is now in contention for the second leg of the Champions League quarter final against Arsenal and could also feature in the Copa del Rey final against Barcelona.

It must be noted that Ceballos sustained a muscle injury on 27 February, which affected the tendon. At the time, it was assumed he would miss all of the most important fixtures in the spring.

That meant sitting out the Champions League round of 16 clash against Atletico Madrid, the quarter final stage if Madrid progressed, and both the semi-final and potential final of the Copa del Rey.

Early predictions suggested he would not be fully fit until May.

Ceballos has proved everyone wrong
However, from the very beginning, Ceballos remained determined. He promised a faster return and stuck to a strict and careful recovery plan.