Dani Ceballos finally completed his season long loan move to Arsenal this week and has revealed that the late Gunners star, Jose Antonio Reyes, inspired him to join the club.
The 22-year-old was born and raised in Utrera, the same town as Reyes, and has said a conversation with Reyes’ father ultimately convinced him to join the Gunners.
The talented midfielder was officially announced as an Arsenal player on Thursday and has hopes of following in the footsteps of a player that he idolised as a child.
Reyes , who tragically died aged 35 in a car accident a month ago, was a fan favourite at the Gunners during his three year stint, winning a Premier League crown with the infamous ‘Invincibles’ and reached the 2006 Champions League final.
(Image: Arsenal)
During an interview with the club’s official website Ceballos said: “Arsenal have always kept a close eye on my career, but at the end of the day all players have to make decisions in their careers.
“This is a historic club that I’ve always looked out for because of Jose Antonio Reyes, who is from the same town as me and played here.
“He made history at this club, winning the league title, so it’s an important step in my career for me to join Arsenal.”
Ceballos and Reyes both were born and grew up in the Andalusian town of Utrera in southern Spain and began their careers at Sevilla , the closest nearby club.
(Image: Press Association)
Growing up having a local hero playing at some big clubs as your role model proved to be a huge inspiration for the highly rated youngster.
“I spoke to his [Reyes’] father just before coming here,” Ceballos said.
“He told me not to think twice because this is a wonderful club. Jose had a fantastic time here.
“When I came into the training ground today I saw a picture of him and it really struck me because he’s like my childhood idol.
(Image: EMPICS Sport)
“Being at the club where he made a name for himself is a big step forward and I hope to make this club even bigger.”
Ceballos hopes to settle quickly with the club having a couple of Spanish players in their ranks with the likes of close friend Hector Bellerin and Nacho Monreal and not to mention boss Unai Emery .
The Spaniard joins up with the squad ahead of their final three pre-season games against Lyon, Angers and Barcelona and the start of the Premier League season on August 9th (Arsenal play Newcastle on the 11th).
