The question of whether Isco is still at Real Madrid is a common one among football fans. Isco, whose full name is Francisco Román Alarcón Suárez, is a Spanish professional footballer who has played primarily as an attacking midfielder. To understand his current status, it's essential to delve into his career trajectory at Real Madrid, his contributions, and the circumstances surrounding his departure or potential departure from the club.

Isco's Career at Real Madrid

Isco joined Real Madrid in the summer of 2013 from Málaga. At the time, he was one of the most promising young talents in Spanish football, known for his exceptional dribbling skills, vision, and ability to unlock defenses with his precise passing. His arrival at Real Madrid was met with considerable excitement, as fans and pundits alike anticipated his integration into the team's star-studded lineup.

During his initial seasons at Real Madrid, Isco showed glimpses of his brilliance. However, establishing himself as a regular starter proved challenging due to the fierce competition for places in midfield. Players like Cristiano Ronaldo, Gareth Bale, Karim Benzema, Luka Modrić, and Toni Kroos were already established stars, making it difficult for any new player to break into the starting XI consistently. Despite this, Isco often made significant contributions when given the opportunity, showcasing his ability to change the tempo of a game and create scoring chances.

One of the highlights of Isco's career at Real Madrid was his role in the team's Champions League triumphs. He was part of the squad that won the Champions League four times in five years (2014, 2016, 2017, and 2018), playing a crucial role in several of those campaigns. His performances in midfield, characterized by his intricate dribbling and incisive passing, helped Real Madrid dominate their opponents and secure victories in crucial matches. Isco's ability to retain possession under pressure and his knack for finding space in crowded areas made him a valuable asset to the team.

However, as the years progressed, Isco's role at Real Madrid began to diminish. The arrival of new players, coupled with changes in managerial preferences, led to fewer starting opportunities for the Spanish midfielder. Despite his undeniable talent, he struggled to find a consistent place in the team, often being used as a substitute or rotated in and out of the lineup. This lack of consistent playing time affected his form and confidence, leading to speculation about his future at the club.

Factors Affecting Isco's Departure

Several factors contributed to the circumstances surrounding Isco's departure from Real Madrid. These include:

1. Competition for Places: Real Madrid's midfield has always been highly competitive, with world-class players vying for starting positions. The presence of established stars like Luka Modrić, Toni Kroos, and Casemiro made it difficult for Isco to secure a regular spot in the team. Additionally, the emergence of younger talents like Federico Valverde further increased the competition for places in midfield.

2. Managerial Preferences: Different managers have different tactical approaches and preferences regarding player selection. Some managers favored Isco and gave him opportunities to shine, while others preferred different players or formations that did not suit his style of play. Changes in managerial personnel often led to fluctuations in Isco's playing time and role within the team.

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3. Form and Fitness: Like any professional athlete, Isco experienced fluctuations in form and fitness throughout his career. Injuries and periods of inconsistent performance affected his ability to maintain a regular place in the team. When he was not at his best, it became more difficult for him to compete with his teammates for playing time.

4. Contractual Situation: Isco's contract with Real Madrid was another factor that influenced his future at the club. As his contract neared its expiration date, discussions about a potential renewal or departure became more frequent. The club's willingness to offer him a new contract, as well as Isco's own ambitions and desire for playing time, played a significant role in determining his next move.

Isco's Departure from Real Madrid

Isco officially left Real Madrid at the end of his contract in May 2022. After nine seasons with the club, he departed as a free agent. During his time at Real Madrid, Isco won numerous titles, including La Liga titles and Champions League crowns, contributing significantly to the team's success during his peak years.

Following his departure from Real Madrid, Isco sought a new club where he could find more consistent playing time and revitalize his career. Several clubs across Europe expressed interest in signing him, recognizing his talent and potential to make an impact in their respective leagues.

Where is Isco Now?

After leaving Real Madrid, Isco signed with Sevilla in August 2022. Joining the Andalusian club marked a new chapter in his career, as he aimed to regain his form and showcase his abilities in a different environment. However, his time at Sevilla was short-lived, and he left the club in December 2022 due to disagreements with the management.

In January 2023, Isco was close to joining Union Berlin, but the transfer fell through at the last minute. As of July 2023, Isco has officially signed with Real Betis. This move keeps him in La Liga and provides him with an opportunity to revitalize his career in a competitive environment.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Isco is no longer at Real Madrid. His departure marked the end of a significant chapter in his career, characterized by both triumphs and challenges. While he may not have always been a consistent starter, he contributed significantly to the team's success during his time at the club. His move to Real Betis represents a fresh start and an opportunity for him to showcase his talent and continue his career in Spanish football. For fans who wondered whether Isco was still part of the Real Madrid squad, the answer is definitively no, as he has embarked on a new journey with Real Betis.