Isco proves magic cannot be forgotten

Francisco Roman Alarcon Suarez, also known as Isco, has quickly found his feet at Real Betis. After arriving as a free agent a few weeks ago following several months without a club, the player put in some remarkable performances in his first two La Liga games.

Named player of the match at Villarreal (1-2) last week, then at home to Atletico Madrid (0-0) on Sunday, the 31-year-old midfielder is gradually returning to his best. The same level that made him one of the brightest players of his generation.

The Spanish international, who has 38 caps to his name, spoke of his fitness after the match against the 'Colchoneros': "I'm feeling good, I'm very happy to be coming to a club like Real Betis, the welcome from the fans, the team-mates and the coach has been very good, and I feel very happy, eager to prove myself and help my team. We're just getting started and I hope everything goes well.

Despite almost nine months out of action, Isco said: "I'm better than I expected. It's been a long time without competition, but I feel good. I still think I need more strength, but the coach is looking after me. I'm very happy.

Manuel Pellegrini, who coached him at Malaga where he made his breakthrough, will be hoping to bring Isco's magic back to life and help him regain his former glittering reputation.

 

August 20, 2023