Isco puts a shift in to send message to Zidane
The man from Málaga looked to grasp another opportunity afforded to him by the Real coach after covering 11.57 kilometers against Betis.
Another chance
Against Betis Isco was presented with another opportunity to shine and prove his worth to Madrid coach Zinedine Zidane. With Modric, Casemiro and James all sidelined, the doors to the first eleven were opened up for the Spain international to stake a claim in the side. At Villamarín Isco was keen to show his commitment in his third start in the 2016-17 campaign - he scored two, clocked up the most shots on goal and successfully completed 51 passes (second only to Kroos in the Madrid side), while covering the most ground 11.57 kilometers, more than any of his team-mates.
Kick-starting his season
The injury he was carrying at the start of the season, coupled with the lack of game-time, led him to voice is discontent: "If I don't play more minutes then I'll look for a way out". However, Saturday's resounding victory was a confidence boost for Isco's future and a starting point from which to revive his Real Madrid career.
The fight for places
With Casemiro and Modric due to be out at least until the Madrid derby against Atlético on 20 November, the Malagueño is set to fight for a starting berth with James, upon his return, and Asensio, particularly given that breaking up the BBC appears non-negotiable. His performance at Villamarín will have done his cause no harm whatsoever.