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Evening Standard
Evening Standard
Sport
JOE KRISHNAN

Arsenal coach Unai Emery explains flexible role of Dani Ceballos after impressive home debut

Arsenal boss Unai Emery was pleased with Dani Ceballos after the midfielder enjoyed an impressive full debut in the 2-1 victory over Burnley.

The Spain international, on a season-long loan from Real Madrid, was making his first start for the Gunners after coming off the bench in the Premier League opener against Newcastle last weekend.

The 22-year-old had a day to remember in front of the home supporters at the Emirates, setting up Alexandre Lacazette and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang for their goals and earning a standing ovation when substituted late on.

David Luiz also made his first start for the north London side after his deadline day switch from Chelsea, and Emery declared his delight with their performances.

"Yes, [they were] very good. [It was] their first match here at home officially," Emery told BT Sport.

Praise: Dani Ceballos enjoyed a productive debut after two assists against Burnley. (Getty Images)

"I want to speak about the team. But individually [they were] also good. [Nicolas] Pepe good, Dani good, David Luiz good, and other players also.

"I think continuing with Laca scoring and Aubameyang scoring is good. The only thing we didn’t do today was keep a clean sheet, but we will."

Ceballos started in the No. 10 role behind Aubemeyang and Lacazette before switching to a deeper role later on.

And Emery explained how he expects the playmaker to adapt to a variety of different positions in the midfield during the game.

"[We want] to use his quality in the best position in our team," he added.

Impact: Ceballos put in a man of the match performance on his full debut. (Getty Images)

"I spoke with him before coming here, it’s to play as an eight and as a No. 10. He started like a 10 but changed with Willock. He can feel better on the pitch."

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