Zinedine Zidane: Isco should follow Nacho and Lucas Vazquez to get a new contract

Nacho has impressed in Madrid’s defence following recent injuries to Sergio Ramos and Marcelo, while Vazquez has established himself as an important squad member, this week signing a new contract, yet there have been no indications that Isco is close to an extension.

“I expect a very tough game. They haven’t lost at home and are a team that are doing great,” Zidane said at a press conference ahead of Saturday’s trip to Alaves in La Liga.

“We know the difficulty of this match. What we have to do is think about everything that’ll be difficult. If we apply the necessary concentration, as we have done of late, things will be different. We’ll prepare for the game this way.

“We know that if we want something at the end of the season, we have to think about what we do every day. We must keep doing what we’re doing because this will lead us to achieving something big.

“Alternatively, if we think [Alaves] will be a game that we’ll win, we’ll be wrong. We’re focused on what we have to do. This week has been good. Every match is different.

“Ramos, Casemiro and Modric? At the moment, I can’t say anything. The trio have returned to the field lightly, Modric the most. Ramos started just two days ago. We have to be patient with him and Casemiro both. Casemiro’s going slowly. He’s doing very well, but we have to be patient.We’ll see what he’s like next week because it’s the last week before the international break. That’s the information I have."

“Nacho is here for the same reason as everyone else, and you’ll see the team that play [on Saturday]. The most important thing is that he’s doing, he’s doing phenomenally. The message can get boring, but it’s always the same. He’s very professional, plays well and does what’s asked of him when he plays. This is what we ask Nacho and everyone else.

“Lucas’ renewal? He’s earned it by working hard. He believes in his ability and it’s not been easy for him because he was a youngster here and went away. He’s come back and doing great. His story so far has been very beautiful. I like madridismos like him because he works hard. With work, you always get what you want and he knows it.

"Isco’s renewal? I’d renew all my players’ contracts because they’re the best. I’m not going to change my stance.

“Conceding goals? I’m not worried. We’ll try to improve in this respect. There’s no single explanation, but we must work to give away less chances and always win games with one goal more than our opponents.”

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