Carlo Ancelotti has to choose either Isco or Angel Di Maria to line up as Real Madrid’s playmaker against Espanyol on Sunday.
Marca claims that Ancelotti has 10 of his starting XI in mind, with the only vacancy as the creator alongside the speedy trio of Cristiano Ronaldo, Gareth Bale and Karim Benzema.
Isco was previously Ancelotti’s first choice in the role following the tactical change brought on by Sami Khedira’s injury, but the report claims the former Malaga player is carrying too many pounds after the Christmas break.
Neither Di Maria nor Isco started the Copa del Rey win over Osasuna, with Jese preferred instead. Isco was reportedly dropped after Ancelotti was unhappy with his performance against Celta Vigo.
Di Maria meanwhile was left on the bench while in the midst of the storm regarding his alleged crotch-grabbing gesture, for which he has since been cleared by the club.
The report adds that it is considered likely that whoever doesn’t start will still be given minutes as a substitute.
