In pursuit of Isco – the next Spanish star?

By Joe Jessup
Updated: 8 May, 2013

2012-13 has been an intriguing season for European football, most notably for a series of fine talent emerging all across the continent.

One youngster in particular has been creating headlines in Spain, merging excellent creativity with a decent eye for goal and sound passing ability. Malaga FC’s 21-year old attacking midfielder Isco has arguably been one of La Liga’s outstanding players this year, helping to remind people of the beauty of the Spanish game.

After a somewhat solid first year at Los Boquerones which saw him claim the 2012 La Liga breakthrough player award, Isco has been a stalwart for Manuel Pellegrini this season. The question which arises now however is where the youngster’s future lies, with it almost certainly away from Malaga.

Clubs all across the European spectrum are sure to be lining up bids this summer, with a release clause set at £35-million. The free-flowing midfielder has been heavily linked to both Manchester Clubs, PSG, Barcelona and even as a replacement for the departing Mario Gotze at Dortmund.

The footballing world is at Isco’s feet, he needs only choose a destination.

Let’s begin by assessing a move to the Premier League, most likely with ManCity as they look to catch the red half of the city once again. Isco is a clever midfielder who finds space at will and can link up attacking play in a flash. He is fantastic with the ball at his feet or playing any kind of pass, which makes him ideal for Mancini’s side. His ability to link up with David Silva could be exciting and with strikers such as Sergio Aguero or Carlos Tevez in front of him, it could be a devastating acquisition.

At the Red Devils, it entirely depends on who takes charge next season as Sir Alex Ferguson finally steps down. However, he could fit in to the team almost instantly. Michael Carrick’s game would perfectly allow Isco to take up the dangerous, advancing positions and therefore allow great link up play with Van Persie, Rooney and the rest.

Spanish players have taken to the Premier League a lot easier in recent years, and I’d expect Isco to be able to cope with the change.

Ligue 1 would be an interesting prospect, but undoubtedly less of a challenge. The side being put together under Carlo Ancelotti is close to extraordinary and the addition of Isco would do nothing but cement their strength. The French league is perhaps the least competitive of the four mentioned and with their spending power, PSG are almost a dead certainty for success next season. If Isco wants to go to a team who are guaranteed a good run next year and fit straight in to a winning team, then the soon to be French champions are a perfect match. However, if he wants a challenge then another team is arguably the better move.

A move to Barcelona would be a comfortable one for Isco, as it would mean staying in Spain. Adding the prodigious talent to their ranks would be a good move for the Catalans and surely he’d fit the bill instantly. He is a player very much in the mould of Barcelona, and after a humbling defeat to German giants Bayern Munich, perhaps it’s time for them to hunt for a couple of new players. Isco alongside Messi and co would certainly create the potential for fireworks.

Lastly it’s the outsiders in Germany, Borussia Dortmund. The Germans are a fantastic team, with technical ability in abundance. A player with Isco’s quality would thrive in such a talented side and a like for like swap with the departing Gotze would suit them as if a dream. He plays in a similar way to the young German and has the quality to set the Bundesliga alight.

In a season where Dortmund will face their stiffest test for years, (without Gotze and possibly Lewandowski), this signing would be welcomed with open arms by the fans.

With so many options at his disposal, it appears almost inevitable that we will see him paraded to a set of lucky fans this summer. Just who it will be, no one yet knows.

Take your pick from a host of Europe’s finest, such is the lads potential.

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