Real Madrid: 5 backup players who could get an opportunity vs. Osasuna

AM Isco

Isco started in both of Real Madrid’s 0-0 draws with Getafe and Real Betis. The attacking midfielder played the full 90 minutes against Getafe, which was a match Real were never going to win, based on how they had no real midfield setup, including Rodrygo Goes – of all people – in the middle of the park.

But Isco wasn’t actually bad against Getafe. He had two key passes, two dribbles completed, and two fouls drawn. It’s not saying much, but he was technically Real’s best midfielder in the match.

That said, Isco was dreadful one week later against Real Betis. The positive? He won three fouls. The negative? He didn’t offer anything of substance to the Madrid attack and showed the same usual issues with indecisiveness as usual.

Isco is at a crossroads at Real Madrid. This could be the year he finally leaves the club. But “could” is a loose word. Isco is not useless to Los Blancos, despite how often he is seemingly scapegoated by frustrated fans.

Last season, Isco was incredible in the second match against Osasuna, shining in Pamplona and helping lead Los Blancos to a comeback win. Perhaps he can recapture that same magic at the Estadio Alfredo Di Stefano this weekend. As disappointing as Isco has been this season, the quality is still there. And it’s true that he’s never been able to get into a rhythm.