Ceballos sacrifices his salary to escape Real Madrid

Spanish midfielder Dani Ceballos sacrificed nearly half his Real Madrid salary to return to Real Betis, preferring to play for his boyhood club over a higher wage . According to the Spanish newspaper AS, Ceballos became a free agent after Real Madrid decided to release him following José Mourinho's arrival as manager. The Portuguese coach informed the midfielder that he was not part of his plans . Ceballos was given the green light to leave without Real Madrid demanding a transfer fee, in exchange for the club saving his salary for the final year of his contract . Ceballos' desire to return to Real Betis was clear; he was uninterested in considering other offers, despite interest from clubs including Ajax, and insisted on returning to the club where he began his professional career . His determination paid off, and he signed a three-year contract with Betis, agreeing to accept roughly half of his Real Madrid salary . Ceballos' return to Betis gives him a chance to revive his career, especially with the team's participation in the Champions League, after struggling during his years with Real Madrid to secure a regular place in the starting lineup.