Ancelotti hails Isco impact

Isco of Real Madrid

Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti has heaped praise on new signing Isco after the midfielder scored a brace against Athletic Bilbao on Sunday.

“Isco is doing very well; he looks like he has been playing here a long time. He has shown his personality, quality and ability,” said Ancelotti in a press conference.

“He has just as much quality on the wing as in the center, but the defensive work he is doing on the wing is very important. When we are attacking he can go where he wants and he is very good at choosing the right place on the pitch,” he added.

Ancelotti said that he was happy for Cristiano Ronaldo after the Portuguese international broke his goalless streak on Sunday. The manager also praised Luka Modric, who excelled in midfield.

“I think that Modric had a fantastic match and Cristiano scored which is always important for a forward,” he said.

The Italian then addressed the situation of Mesut Ozil, who was left on the bench and is said to be unhappy about the decision.

“It is normal that Ozil is not happy. I don’t like players that are happy to be on the bench. It is a management decision. Angel Di Maria has rhythm, intensity and I preferred him for this match, that is all,” the manager said.

Ozil has been linked with a move away from Madrid, although the German denied the rumors Arsenal are believed to be preparing a final deadline day bid for the player.