‘Isco is Real Madrid’s most talented player’
ABU DHABI : Real Madrid defender Marcelo labelled Isco the player with the most ability in the squad on Tuesday – despite coach Santiago Solari rarely selecting the midfielder and local media reporting that he may leave the club.
Spanish playmaker Isco has not started a La Liga match since Solari took over from Julen Lopetegui in October and has been linked in local reports with a move away from the European champions.
Isco and his team-mates landed in Abu Dhabi on Monday to defend their Club World Cup title, although the midfielder may have a bit-part role in the tournament.
“We all know his quality. For me it’s him who has the most ability and quality on the pitch,” Marcelo told a news conference there on Tuesday.
“A lot of meaning is being given to something that isn’t that important, some play more at times and others play less. As players we have our moments. “We don’t have to talk about it much more. He’s at Real Madrid unti l the death like al l the players.”
Solari said that Isco is working hard ahead of Wednesday’s semifinal clash with Japanese side Kashima Antlers.
“We are focusing on the game against Kashima so I see ( Isco) and everyone else working with the enthusiasm that this game deserves, that they earned ( by winning the Champions League),” said Solari. —