Zidane considering Isco as a false nine against Atalanta -report

Real Madrid coach Zinedine Zidane is thinking about giving Isco Alarcon the chance to start against Atalanta in a role as a false nine, according to El Chiringuito’s Josep Pedrerol. Backup striker Mariano Diaz could then come off the bench later in the game if needed.

Isco has played as a false nine in the past, mainly during Carlo Ancelotti’s two-year tenure. There, the midfielder helped the team controlling the tempo of the game, something which could be useful against an offensive side like Atalanta.

If Isco does indeed start in the center of the attack, Real Madrid would need good production from both Vinicius and Asensio. Ultimately, Asensio could also switch positions with Isco during the game, given that he’s a bit more vertical and offensive-minded than the midfielder.

This move makes sense given the lack of depth on Real’s current roster. Sergio Arribas could also be an option to start but probably lacks the experience to play in such an important game, so letting Mariano come off the bench and giving Isco a chance to make an impact seems reasonable.

HOW TO WATCH, STREAM CHAMPIONS LEAGUE

Date: 02/24/2021

Time: 21:00 CET (local time), 03:00pm EST.

Venue: Gewiss Stadium, Bergamo, Italy.

Available TV: TUDN (USA), Movistar Liga de Campeones (Spain)

Available Streaming: TUDN.com (USA), Fubo.TV (USA).

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