Let’s all have a disco…
During Zinedine Zidane’s reign at Real Madrid, Isco seemed to have reached the light at the end of a turbulent tunnel. Under Zidane’s predecessor, Carlo Ancelotti, Isco found himself without a natural spot in the team due to the manager’s preference for 4-3-3.
But Zidane’s decision to change to a diamond allowed Isco the freedom of the park, playing in a free role at the tip of the diamond, a role that he thrived in.
However, this season, especially since Santiago Solari’s appointment, has seen Isco’s troubles return. He can’t nail down a spot in the team and even when he does play, his performance levels have fallen far short of expectation.
Tensions between Isco and the famously demanding fanbase have reached boiling point after the player appeared to lash out at the fans, gesturing to them and reportedly shouting “what do you want?!” in their direction during Madrid’s loss to CSKA Moscow.
It now seems likely that the playmaker will depart Real Madrid in the January transfer window, with Premier League clubs circling, ready to make offers.
Tottenham have been linked with the Spain international previously, as have Manchester City. Chelsea have also been alerted to his availability, according to reports, which could turn the battle to sign him in January into a three horse race.
Isco could slot into Chelsea’s midfield trio in place of Mateo Kovačić, who has underwhelmed since his loan move from Real Madrid. He could also serve as a back-up and potential replacement for Eden Hazard on the left-wing.
His release clause was raised to €700m when he last signed a contract extension with Madrid, but you’d suspect that Madrid will let him go for a lot less.
€700m is steep, even in this climate, even for Manchester City.
