Isco is top-class.

When Isco was writhing on the pitch during the match against Las Palmas in May 2024, few would have thought it would be the beginning of an incredible comeback story. A serious fibula injury not only required surgery but also forced the 33-year-old midfielder to miss much of the first half of the 2024/25 season.

In the harsh world of football, where age and injury are often the unforgiving enemies of players, many have questioned Isco's future.

Return

"I never doubted my ability to return," Isco shared after a rehabilitation session in late 2024. "The important thing is patience and belief in yourself."

That patience paid off handsomely. Since his brief debut in the draw against Barcelona in early December 2024, Isco gradually regained his form and completely exploded in early 2025. His penalty goal against Rayo Vallecano – his first start – was a powerful statement of his return.

Isco's statistics for 2025 would make even top strikers envious: 10 goals (7 in La Liga, 2 in the Conference League, 1 in the Copa del Rey); 7 assists (5 in La Liga, 2 in European competitions); direct involvement in 16 goals in 21 official matches; an average contribution to a goal every 99 minutes of play; started in 19 out of 21 matches with a total of 1,594 minutes played.

"Isco is not only a talented player, but also the heart and soul of the team," said coach Manuel Pellegrini after the victory against Girona at Montilivi - a match that coincided with the captain's 33rd birthday.

Isco, brother 1

Isco is the heart and soul of Real Betis's style of play.

Isco's rise to prominence isn't limited to individual contributions. Like a catalyst, he's driven the development of the entire team. Real Betis has undergone a spectacular transformation since the beginning of 2025, particularly after the painful defeat at Vigo – a crucial turning point that forced the team to change.

The combination of Isco with new signings like Antony – the attacking threat on the right wing recently loaned from Manchester United, the young talent Jesus Rodriguez on the left wing, the striker Cucho with his excellent link-up play, and the remarkable progress of Bakambu has created a formidable attacking line for the Andalusian team.

"When you have quality players around you, everything becomes much easier," Isco admitted after an impressive victory in the Conference League. "I'm just one piece in the bigger picture that coach Pellegrini is painting."

Conquering Europe - a dream that is no longer far away.

From a modest position at the end of 2024, Real Betis are now close to achieving their goal of qualifying for their fifth consecutive European Cup title and even harbor hopes of securing a Champions League spot. With 51 points in La Liga, they are currently in sixth place and just five points behind the top four with six rounds remaining.

Meanwhile, the team is making strong progress in the Conference League, hoping to bring home the club's first European title since winning the UEFA Cup Winners' Cup in 1977.

Isco brother 2

With Isco, Real Betis are a more formidable team.

"We know we're in a special phase," veteran defender Héctor Bellerín shared. "Having Isco back in the squad is like having another superstar, but a superstar who knows how to lift the whole team."

On his 33rd birthday in Montilivi, before a crucial match against Girona, his teammates unexpectedly organized a small celebration for Isco at the team hotel. This touching moment reflects his influence not only on the pitch but also in the dressing room.

"Isco is a role model for all of us," young midfielder Rodri González expressed. "He never gives up in the face of adversity and always gives his all for the club. That's why we love and respect him so much."

With the captain's armband on his arm and in top form, Isco is rediscovering the most glorious moments of his career, similar to the periods when he shone at Malaga and Real Madrid. Betis fans can be proud of a true leader – one who has found a second home at Benito Villamarín and is writing new chapters in the club's history.

As the season enters its decisive phase, Isco and Real Betis are presented with a historic opportunity. A Champions League spot, a European title, or both – all are within reach for the blue-and-white team.

With Isco in top form and a squad that is becoming increasingly cohesive, big dreams at Benito Villamarín have never seemed more achievable. "The road ahead is long and difficult," coach Pellegrini cautiously stated. "But with the spirit and quality we currently possess, we are not afraid of any challenge."

And at the heart of it all remains Isco Alarcon – who has overcome pain and doubt to rise again, proving that with passion and perseverance, nothing is impossible.

Source: https://znews.vn/isco-qua-dang-cap-post1548011.html