Isco has said he always believed in himself while he was out of the Real Madrid team and revealed what changed to make him a regular under Carlo Ancelotti.
The former Malaga midfielder was lauded for his display in Los Blancos’ win over Elche and, speaking to reporters after the match, insisted he wasn’t going to get carried away with the praise.
Isco also explained how he altered his style of play to become the kind of player the Coach couldn’t ignore, and insisted he wouldn’t let recent praise go to his head.
“There’s no problem. I’m calm and I try to help the team on the pitch and off it,” he said, AS reports.
“We’re four points ahead of Barcelona. That my name is cheered is a source of pride.
“I always believed in myself but I took an important step when it came to regaining possession and that made me more attractive.
“I have to do that in order to have a place in the team. I try to help by running and working. I became a more complete player. But I don’t want to talk so much about myself.”
It was pointed out to Isco that he is the player most used by Ancelotti in his 100 League games, a fact of which the player wasn’t aware, but he preferred to speak about the team.
“I didn’t know that but I’m happy about it. Now I have to continue working. There’s a lot left, with the League and Champions League,” he added.
“The team has recovered emotionally. Since the first minute we had intensity and desire. We could have taken the advantage in the first half.
“You have to live with criticism and move on, as the team did. Football changes from one day to another.”
Isco concluded by acknowledging Barca’s defeat at home to Malaga, his old club giving his new employers a hand.
“I was like a Malaga fan again, that’s what I am. I have to say thank you,” he noted.
