Ceballos: “Solari views Isco as a bit out of shape”

The now official Real Madrid coach, Santiago Solari, has used Spain’s best player from the World Cup, Isco Alarcon, sparingly since taking over the bench. Isco had appendicitis surgery at the end of September, but was back out on the pitch rather quickly for a surgery that usually takes 4-6 weeks before any physical exercise can be expected. Isco was back out starting in El Clasico in just under four weeks. Solari has stated in previous press conferences that he will not force “special” Isco back into the lineup too quickly.

Dani Ceballos, who is once again away on international duty as he has become a regular in Luis Enrique’s squad list, spoke with El Chiringuito regarding Isco’s current situation. “He is a player who came from a major injury and went through surgery,” the Andalusian told reporters.

“With Julen, he played two games consecutively and with Solari he said he saw him a bit out of shape, but he is now training at 100%”

Meanwhile, Dani Ceballos is having a resurgence this season, even after Lopetegui’s departure. Last season was difficult for the former Betico as he did not feature prominently in Zidane’s rotation plans. This year, Ceballos has already amassed more minutes in La Liga compare to the whole of last season. Solari trusted the talented midfielder to operate in the single pivot defensive midfielder role away to Celta this weekend and helped the team secure 3 points with a gorgeous goal.

The roles for both Isco and Ceballos will become clear as the former builds his fitness and as Solari begins to embed his mark on the team. Both are in the current Spain squad who take on Croatia in the UEFA Nations League on Thursday.