Isco edges closer to Real Madrid departure

Isco appears on his way out of Real Madrid.

Marca says the return of coach Carlo Ancelotti was supposed to be a lightning rod for Isco to revive his career at Real Madrid after he shone so brightly during the Italian's first spell in charge, but despite starting two of the first three league games this season, he soon fell out of favour.

Isco played 59 minutes against Levante and 66 against Real Betis, impressing in both games, but that was followed by 12 minutes against Valencia, 18 against Real Mallorca and nine against Villarreal. Since that 0-0 draw against Villarreal on September 25, Isco has not played for Real Madrid.

He was diagnosed with a back problem that kept him out for the month of October, as he missed the matches against Espanyol, Barcelona and Osasuna. Ancelotti then brought Isco back into the squad for the last two games against Elche and Rayo Vallecano, but on both occasions he was left on the bench.

What's more, Isco has not played a single minute in the Champions League this season. While he was injured for Real Madrid's win against Shakhtar Donetsk in Kyiv, he has stayed on the bench for the other three.

Isco's deal at Real Madrid expires next summer, on June 30, so he will be free to talk to other clubs about signing a pre-contract agreement from January 1, 2022.