Zinedine Zidane hailed Isco as a purist’s player after his crowning performance in Real Madrid’s 6-1 demolition of Real Betis on Saturday.
Madrid emphatically halted a run of three straight draws in La Liga, with Isco playing a starring role as he helped himself to a brace, the first goal of which was singled out for praise by Zidane, who also made it clear the midfielder’s future lay with Los Blancos.
“I’m very happy after three draws in the League,” the Coach said after the game.
“We had to play like we did, and from the start we had the intensity needed to win.
“It was a difficult venue, but we started strongly and it’s very difficult for our opponents when we play like that.
“I have good and intelligent players. They knew they had to improve and did very well. Playing well from the first minute is very difficult for opponents.
“We worked on trying to do that and now we must be satisfied and continue. This match is a reference for us. It’s not easy to play away from home like we did.
“The players know that we’re difficult to beat if we apply intensity from the start. We must continue working on this and it’d be good not to draw four games.
“I don’t think we lowered our intensity. We failed in two or three specific passages and that can happen to you in a game. We had a great game.
“Isco’s part of the squad. He did very well today and I’m happy for his goals and work because he worked very hard.
“When Lucas Vazquez came on, he played as one of the midfielders. It’s not his ideal position, but each of my players can play in many positions and Lucas carried out his work calmly.
“I didn’t see Cristiano Ronaldo to be anxious. He always wants to score and it’s normal.
“Most importantly, he got stuck in and transmitted a very positive energy to the others. I’m happy for his goal.
“We’re fortunate to have important players in each position and that they show it in every game, plus from set-pieces, which is very important.
“Fourth goal? It was for whoever likes football, and I like it a lot. It’s good and nice to see that what we had to do, we did it so quickly, on the break, and with so few touches. I hope to see more of it and enjoy it.”
